İzmir Honored with the Prestigious 2022 Europe Prize
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The 2022 Europe Prize – the highest level of the Prize which is awarded each year by the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) to the town most active in promoting the European ideal – has been awarded to İzmir in Turkey.
Strategic Location: İzmir boasts a prime spot on the Aegean Sea. Ranking as Turkey's third-largest city with a populace of four million, it stands as the second-largest port after Istanbul.
Global Connections: İzmir builds bridges of collaboration as it's twinned with 24 global cities. Its dedication to fostering political, economic, social, and cultural ties with international municipalities is unparalleled. This commitment is evident as İzmir welcomes myriad foreign delegations annually.
Events Capital: İzmir's reputation as a congress hub is solidified by the plethora of events it hosts. From the İzmir International Fair and the International Economic Congress to the Balkan Folk Dance Festival and the İzmir International Jazz Festival, the city is a vibrant events hotspot.
Innovation Amidst Adversity: Despite the challenges of 2021's pandemic, İzmir's resilience shone through. The city introduced its first international virtual marathon and spearheaded events like the İzmir International Film and Music Festival, European Music Day, and the 5th İzmir International Literature Festival, attracting luminaries from Europe's literary circle.
City with a Heart: Beyond its cultural and economic feats, İzmir embodies compassion. It extends aid to those affected by natural calamities and ensures seamless integration of migrants into the local culture. Initiatives like the "Sister Family" project highlight İzmir's commitment to unity and mutual understanding.
Global Footprint: İzmir's participation in international bodies, including EUROCITIES, MedCities, UCLG, and the WHO European Healthy Cities Network, underscores its pivotal role in global dialogues and collaborations.
The Europe Prize: A Glimpse
Initiated by PACE in 1955, the Europe Prize stands as the ultimate recognition for a European town's commendable efforts in the continental realm. The accolade comprises a trophy, medal, diploma, and a scholarship earmarked for young representatives from the winning town to embark on a study tour of European institutions.
In a nutshell, İzmir's recognition is a testament to its dedication to fostering European unity and its relentless pursuit of excellence.
