Belfast is a worthy contender for European Capital of Culture in 2008 despite bad publicity caused by recent sectarian violence, it was claimed today.
Culture Minister Mr Michael McGimpsey was speaking as he welcomed the eight-strong judging panel to the Odyssey Centre at Laganside.
"There is no avoiding the fact that the image of Belfast that has recently been on television screens throughout the UK has been one of violence and confrontation. But there is much more to our city and our Province than that."
The Ulster Unionist Assembly member greeted the panel which included chairman Sir Jeremy Isaacs and vice chairs Sue McGregor and Judith Mayhew.
This is being seen as the final push for Imagine Belfast, the team bidding to win the nomination, to impress the judges.
Belfast is thought to be one of the favourites to win the bid. Other cities in the running include Liverpool, Newcastle, Birmingham and Cardiff.
Mr McGimpsey said the resilience and determination to build a better life for the people of Belfast and the rest of Northern Ireland had meant the North had made huge progress over recent years.
"That spirit will not be diminished by recent violence. We are front-runners in this bid because we have earned that respect. I am determined that that will not change," he added.
PA