Thievery Corporation will perform in Montenegro for the first time on July 8th

Nikšić presented itself today at the International Podgorica Book and Education Fair as the European Capital of Culture for 2030, continuing the tradition of participating in this important event.

President of the Municipality of Nikšić, Marko Kovacevic, reminded that the city had appeared at the Fair in previous years as a candidate and finalist, and now as the official holder of the title for 2030. He pointed out that the project is backed by years of work and results, and that the local government and the Nikšić 2030 Office are working on implementing the obligations from the application that won the title. He added that numerous infrastructure projects have already been completed or are in the final phase, with the expectation that Nikšić will worthily bear the title of European Capital of Culture in 2030.

Kovačević also announced major cultural events, including a concert by the iconic American collective Thievery Corporation, which will perform for the first time in Montenegro on July 8, at the Institute of Ferrous Metallurgy in Nikšić. He stressed that it is significant that the city, which is part of the UNESCO network of creative cities as a City of Music, is receiving a world-class event.

Speaking about the effects of the title, Kovačević assessed that Nikšić has already become more visible and recognizable on the European cultural scene, which opens up space for new events, improved cultural and tourist offers, and the arrival of investors. He also expressed the expectation that Montenegro will become a member of the European Union by 2030.

Representative of the Nikšić 2030 office, Mato Uljarević, emphasized the connection between the European integration process and the title of European Capital of Culture. He stated that in 2028, Nikšić will host the Culture Next conference of European Capitals of Culture cities, which will make the city a meeting place for European cultural networks and the cultural sector of the Western Balkans.

Representative of the Nikšić 2030 Office, Nemanja Popovic, said that the project had the support of all political parties from the beginning, and that the goal was not just the organization of festivals and events, but a long-term change in the city's identity and the development of new cultural values. He added that the entire Montenegro would be involved in the implementation of the project, with the message of decentralization of culture and the inclusion of all communities in a process that is important for the country as a whole.