Liverpool has hosted EU Ambassadors and dignitaries to mark Europe Day – Council Leader, Cllr Liam Robinson, explains why we want to be the most Europe facing city in the UK…
It has been a great honour to welcome 60 senior diplomats and sector representatives from 29 countries to attend the city’s ‘Liverpool Welcomes Europe’ programme, to mark Europe Day. It is a first for the European Union, and for Liverpool.
Europe Day is significant as it marks the 75th anniversary of the Schuman Declaration. This historic moment laid the foundation for the European Union and initiated an unprecedented era of prosperity, peace, democracy, solidarity, and cooperation across Europe.
Liverpool Welcomes Europe has been about celebrating what makes Liverpool unique – and what ties us to Europe – and the vibrancy and importance of our diaspora communities – days filled with culture, creativity, community, innovation and opportunity. Not just in Liverpool, but across Europe.
We want to leverage the rich historical and cultural ties that Liverpool shares with Europe, and Europe with Liverpool – promoting opportunities for cultural and knowledge exchange, education, business and trade, inward investment and innovation.
Europe Day here is more than a celebration. It’s a promise. A commitment to deeper ties – to collaboration, investment and shared ideas. It’s a catalyst for long-term connection.
We’ve always looked outwards. From 2008’s Capital of Culture to 2023’s Eurovision, we’ve used global stages to bring people together. Music, heritage, creativity – they’re in our bones. And they keep us open, curious and proud of who we are.
Our European communities are a huge part of that. They’ve helped shape the city’s spirit – bold, warm and inventive. Europe Day celebrates that. And it grows each year, strengthening bonds between businesses, institutions and neighbours.
Innovation is our best export. Life sciences, gaming, advanced manufacturing, music, sport – Liverpool leads where others follow. Because we back ideas. We welcome difference. And we act with purpose.
We’re a city of firsts. Of big hearts and big thinking. A city of 80 languages, world-class music, astounding architecture – and shared ambition.
The 10th most recognised non-capital city brand in the world.
The most filmed city outside London.
We are building something.
Europe Day isn’t a one-off – it’s part of a bigger story.
One where Liverpool is the UK’s most Europe-facing city.
