In recent days, we had the pleasure of hosting Mr. Shuji Kogi, Secretary General of EU-Japan Fest, during his visit to Lublin. The purpose of this visit was to establish collaboration between Lublin and Japan as part of the European Capital of Culture 2029 initiative. Mr. Kogi shared his inspiring vision for artistic exchange between Japan and Lublin, sparking excitement for future cooperation.
For over 30 years, EU-Japan Fest has successfully fostered cultural exchange between Japan and the European Union. The organization focuses on promoting both traditional and contemporary art and culture. With the financial support of Japan’s leading corporations, it enables the presentation of Japanese culture in Europe—particularly in European Capitals of Culture—and European culture in Japan. Joint artistic projects, knowledge sharing, and the integration of traditional and modern art forms lie at the heart of this collaboration. Special emphasis is placed on events that not only strengthen collaboration among artists but also build lasting connections between the artistic communities of Lublin and Japan.
The visit’s agenda included productive meetings and tours of Lublin’s cultural institutions and NGOs. During these sessions, the European Capital of Culture program team had the opportunity to present the ideas and vision from Lublin’s winning application. Joining the discussions was Ana Kočegarova Maj, former Head of International Relations for “Kaunas – European Capital of Culture 2022” and currently Lithuania’s Cultural Attaché in Poland.
The delegation also attended official meetings at City Hall with Mayor Krzysztof Żuk and Deputy Mayor for Culture, Sports, and Participation Beata Stepaniuk-Kuśmierzak. The discussions included members of the Lublin Cultural Centre team, which spearheaded the city’s successful application under the leadership of Director Rafał Koziński, the Mayor’s Representative for ECoC 2029 programming, as well as City Hall staff. We were honored to be supported by Mr. Rafał Dutkiewicz, former mayor of Wrocław, who generously shared his expertise and experience.
As we look to 2029, it’s clear that Lublin will not only host incredible cultural exchanges but will also be a vibrant hub for fostering global connections through RE:UNION. We are thrilled for what lies ahead!
