The President of the Principality of Asturias, Adrián Barbón, has praised the development of the World Congress of Asturianía, which took place in Buenos Aires. He underscored the significance of Asturian centers around the world as key representatives of the community abroad, stating, "They are the best embassies of Asturias in the world."
Before the congress concluded, Barbón noted that the event had addressed some of the main challenges facing the Asturian community, particularly the generational transition within Asturian centers. He announced that the Asturias government plans to organize a meeting of young representatives from Asturian centers worldwide in Montevideo in 2027, aimed at promoting the involvement of younger generations and reflecting on the future of these organizations.
Barbón also highlighted the collaborative atmosphere that emerged during the congress and advocated for alternating future editions between Asturias and diaspora territories to facilitate the exchange of experiences.
In his remarks to the media, Barbón emphasized the historical ties between Asturias and Argentina, which hosts one of the largest Asturian communities in the world. He pointed out the role of Asturian centers in disseminating Asturian culture, strengthening economic ties, and fostering new business and investment opportunities.
Additionally, the regional leader met with Asturian-descendant entrepreneurs to explore new avenues for collaboration and to reinforce economic ties between Argentina and Asturias. "These contacts help create opportunities for Asturian companies interested in the Argentine market and for potential Argentine investments in the region," he explained.
On tourism, Barbón advocated for a sustainable growth model that respects natural heritage. He argued that Asturias should continue to promote year-round activities that are respectful of the territory, avoiding speculative dynamics and the concentration of visitors during specific periods.
He also acknowledged the significant role of older individuals within the Asturian community abroad and stressed the need to preserve the legacy of those who have dedicated much of their lives to maintaining connections with the Principality. At the same time, he insisted on the importance of involving youth in the activities of the centers to ensure their continuity.
As an example, Barbón cited the experience of the Asturian Center of La Plata and the active participation of young people in the congress's activities. He noted that the gathering allowed for the demonstration of the commitment of younger generations to the culture, values, and traditions of Asturias, as well as their desire to keep the Asturian identity alive beyond the community's borders.
The World Congress of Asturianía brought together representatives from Asturian centers in various countries with the aim of strengthening ties between the diaspora and Asturias, sharing experiences, and analyzing future challenges for these entities. During the closing session, the Vice President of the Principality, Gimena Llamedo, expressed gratitude for the work done by the Asturian centers and participants in the meeting. "This congress has allowed us to reflect not only on the historical trajectory of Asturian emigration but also on the future challenges facing the Asturian community abroad," she emphasized.
Llamedo also highlighted the participation of young representatives from different Asturian centers, whom she identified as crucial for ensuring generational continuity and the sustainability of the associative movement. She reiterated the regional government's commitment to the diaspora and noted that during the current legislative term, the budget for emigration and return policies has been doubled.
"This effort has materialized in initiatives such as the annual celebration of the World Congress of Asturianía, cultural extension courses, support for Asturians living outside the community, and the launch of new projects, including the future online Asturian school, a demand raised by the centers themselves," she detailed.
Furthermore, she assured that the conclusions and proposals arising from the congress would be incorporated into the work of the Asturias government and defended the role of Asturian centers as strategic allies in strengthening social, cultural, and economic ties with the outside world. In this context, she also emphasized the importance of return policies and encouraged the Asturian community to maintain strong ties with Asturias, a land that, as she noted, remains the home of those who emigrated and the generations who have inherited that sense of belonging.
