Presidential visit highlights cultural cooperation between Liepāja and Finland

On September 17, the President of Finland, Alexander Stubb, accompanied by his spouse, Suzanne Ines-Stubb, and the patron of Liepāja 2027 – the President of Latvia, Edgars Rinkēvičs – visited Liepāja. The visit highlighted the importance of culture and the strengthening of cooperation between Liepāja and Finland.

Liepāja is already working closely with the Finnish city of Oulu, which will celebrate its year as European Capital of Culture in 2026. This strong and meaningful partnership with the Oulu2026 team brings together cultural professionals as well as experts from other fields, providing an important foundation for Liepāja’s preparations for 2027. During today’s meeting, we also shared experiences and warmly acknowledged both the achievements to date and the projects still to come.

Next year, Liepāja will take part in the Oulu2026 opening events, set to take place in January 2026 in the heart of the city. This will stand as a strong testament to our shared European cultural space and lasting friendship.

First Lady Suzanne Ines-Stubb explored the treasures of the Holy Trinity Cathedral, the Craftsmen’s House, and Mrs. Hoijere’s Guest House. She also tried her hand at traditional loom weaving and expressed great delight in discovering Liepāja’s rich craft heritage. She emphasized her deep appreciation for the preserved authentic traditions that contribute to the city’s unique charm.

We are proud that Liepāja, with its creative vitality, is becoming part of the wider European cultural community and further strengthening its cooperation with Finland on the path to 2027.