Begoña Carrasco Reinforces Castellón's Commitment to Diversity

Mayor Begoña Carrasco has presided over the signing of the new agreement with the Spanish Network of Intercultural Cities (RECI), consolidating the city's commitment to diversity and coexistence until 2028.

The event, held in the City Hall's Plenary Hall, was attended by Daniel de Torres, director of RECI, and Marta Pérez, European Projects technician of the network. Also present were the Councilor for Social Welfare, Maica Hurtado, and the Councilor for Institutional Relations, Vicent Sales, along with representatives from NGOs such as Accem, Apip-Acam, Diaconía, Red Cross, and Cáritas, as well as intercultural associations and members of Castellón's interfaith table.

"Today we reaffirm our commitment to what defines us as a city: diversity as wealth, coexistence as a purpose, and interculturality as a path," highlighted the mayor. Carrasco recalled that Castellón first joined this program in 2014 and emphasized that the goal remains to make the city a benchmark in diversity and coexistence.

Castellón, where more than 90 nationalities coexist and dozens of languages are spoken, is a reflection of cultural wealth. "We are a living mosaic, and each piece is indispensable to complete the image of a city that moves forward united," added the mayor.

The new agreement with RECI will allow the continued promotion of annual plans, organization of technical debates with European experts, and strengthening of the intercultural perspective in all municipal policies. "Interculturality is not a project but a continuous process, and today we renew that commitment with more strength than ever," stated Carrasco.

The mayor thanked the entities for their daily work in favor of coexistence: "You are the pillars of this project. Diversity is not a barrier but a bridge that unites us." She concluded by assuring that "Castellón is an open square, not a wall. A home where all languages, traditions, and dreams fit."

Meanwhile, Daniel de Torres, director of RECI, highlighted the importance of equal rights and opportunities and the key role of interaction among citizens. "If we didn't mix, we would reinforce prejudices and stereotypes, missing out on the benefits and opportunities of diversity," he noted. He also praised the work of the entities present: "Their work is based on affection and respect, essential values of interculturality."

With this signing, Castellón reaffirms its role as a welcoming, plural city committed to peaceful coexistence and respect for diversity.