Conventional diplomacy often speaks the language of interests, and therefore suspicion and divisions can easily emerge behind its pragmatic goals. Cultural diplomacy is free from that burden because it asks for nothing in return. It speaks solely to the human soul and spirit, creating a space where stereotypes and prejudices are broken down, Macedonian President GordanaSiljanovska-Davkova said Wednesday evening at Villa Vodno while welcoming participants of the forthcoming 4th Cultural Diplomacy Forum Skopje 2026, to be held under the theme “From Crossroads to Connections: Cultural Diplomacy and the Future of Global Dialogue.”
President Siljanovska-Davkova said that amid geopolitical rivalries and a ruthless pursuit of profit, cultural diplomacy may seem almost Don Quixote-like – a naive dream nurtured by a small group of idealists in a harsh and disintegrating world.
“But I believe the reality is quite the opposite. It is exactly in such a world of conflicts and in such times of suffering that cultural diplomacy manages to create far more enduring and profound bridges than conventional diplomacy,” she noted.
She also referred to the historical and cultural legacy of Skopje, a city that, according to her, has survived countless hardships over the centuries, only to rise again each time through the unbreakable spirit of its people and the support offered by neighboring communities.
“Skopje is naturally suited to be a European Capital of Culture in 2028,” Siljanovska-Davkova added.
The Cultural Diplomacy Forum Skopje 2026 is being organized by the Office of former President GjorgeIvanov, the International Center Alliance of Civilizations and Berlin’s Institute for Cultural Diplomacy, with the support of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.
