La Tricoterie, a former furniture factory transformed into a cultural venue, provided the setting for a project that places culture at the heart of social transformation, citizen participation and European cooperation. The regeneration of former industrial sites is also central to Oviedo 2031, particularly its plans to transform the former Fábrica de Armas de La Vega into a new space for culture and artistic creation.

The event featured Zoe López Mediero and Paula Mota García, Co-Artistic Directors of Oviedo 2031, and Antonia Blau, the bid’s Head of European Dimension. The discussion explored the project's main objectives, its international outlook and opportunities for collaboration with other European cities and cultural organisations.

The programme also included a screening of an excerpt from La revuelta y la nieve (The Revolt and the Snow), by Gijón-born artist Dionisio González. The audiovisual essay explores Asturias’ mining heritage, the social and economic changes experienced by its mining communities, and the potential to repurpose former industrial sites for new uses linked to technology and innovation.

Another central theme was Amabilidá, the concept underpinning the bid, which places coexistence, dialogue and participation at the heart of the project. The motto Choose Utopia extends this vision to Europe, inviting people to imagine new ways of addressing social challenges through culture.

The event also featured La Nueva España, which introduced its digital platform Asturias Exterior. Eduardo Lagar, who leads the initiative, explained how the platform aims to connect Asturians living abroad, share their stories and strengthen their ties with their home region.

The evening concluded with a question-and-answer session, giving attendees the opportunity to engage directly with the Oviedo 2031 team, followed by an informal reception and a DJ set by BPM Express.

The visit to Brussels forms part of Oviedo 2031’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its international connections as the bid enters its final stage. The city selected to represent Spain as European Capital of Culture 2031 is expected to be announced in December.