Istanbul ends events for title "2010 European Capital of Culture"

Turkish State Minister and chief negotiator for EU talks Egemen Bagis said, "Istanbul will be one of the cultural capitals of the world with its assets, historical heritage and spirituality which inspired our civilization based on tolerance and affection."

Istanbul 2010 European Capital of Culture Agency held a closing ceremony at Istanbul's Congress Center on Sunday night just days before handing over the title.

Bagis said at the ceremony, "the world has rediscovered Istanbul with this project which was commenced by President Abdullah Gul and Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan on January 16. It is unfair to define Istanbul as only the cultural capital of 2010. Istanbul will be one of the cultural capitals of the world with its assets, historical heritage and spirituality which inspired our civilization based on tolerance and affection."

"Istanbul is not just a city. It is the identity of Turkey and a unique source of inspiration for peace, brotherhood, tranquillity and tolerance. Istanbul is a European city. Actually, it is the city which shaped the European culture," he said.


/World Bulletin/