Well, the government first announced the initiative last year, allowing time for local councils to prepare and submit an initial proposal. They could do these by means of a local expression of interest, between January and March of 2021.
“The initiative is designed to highlight the richness and diversity of cultures in Europe, celebrate the cultural features Europeans share, increase European citizens’ sense of belonging to a common cultural area, and foster the contribution of culture to the development of cities,” stated VCA.
The VCA is leading the process of submissions and part of the Agency’s remit, as set out of a legal notice, is to “coordinate the bidding process for the next European Capital of Culture title for the Maltese Islands.”