The Andalusian Chambers of Commerce Council has officially endorsed Granada's bid to become the European Capital of Culture in 2031. This accession strengthens the project's regional dimension and underscores the recognition of Granada's potential as a hub for innovation, culture, and economic development.
The inclusion of this institution, representing all Chambers of Commerce in Andalusia, reinforces the strategic alliance between culture, business, and innovation, which are fundamental pillars of Granada's candidacy. It is seen as an opportunity for the entire autonomous community.
The mayor of Granada, Marifrán Carazo, described this support as "a tremendously important step," emphasizing that the Andalusian business community views Granada 2031 as an opportunity for development that extends beyond culture, fostering talent, innovation, and the region's international profile.
Carazo highlighted that the bid has evolved from a local aspiration to a shared project, "created by institutions, universities, businesses, social entities, and citizens who believe in the transformative power of culture." She stressed that becoming the European Capital of Culture will accelerate Granada's transformation, attract investment and jobs, and strengthen its cultural industries.
For his part, the president of the Andalusian Chambers of Commerce Council, Javier Sánchez Rojas, expressed the institution's readiness to actively collaborate, underscoring the importance of cooperation between administrations and the business sector in driving strategic projects.
Representatives from the Andalusian Chambers of Commerce pointed out Granada's strengths, including its historical-artistic heritage, cultural offerings, prestigious university, and a business ecosystem focused on creativity and the knowledge economy. They consider culture a key factor for competitiveness and Andalusia's positioning in Europe.
The mayor thanked them for their support, noting that it represents the dynamism of thousands of Andalusian companies and entrepreneurs. "For this business community to embrace the Granada 2031 project means an extraordinary boost and shows that our bid generates confidence," she stated.
Carazo reiterated the City Council's commitment to continue expanding alliances so that Granada 2031 grows through consensus and collaboration, aiming to be a project for all of Andalusia and Southern Europe, based on the conviction that culture is a "policy for the future."
