On October 10, 2026, Ibone Bengoetxea, the vicelehendakari and Minister of Culture and Linguistic Policy of the Basque Government, participated in the inaugural events of the National Basque Week in Villa María, Córdoba, Argentina. This annual celebration is a significant gathering for the Basque-Argentinian diaspora and one of the most important meetings for Basque communities abroad.
Representing the Basque Government, Bengoetxea conveyed greetings and congratulations from the lehendakari (the president of the Basque Government) to the Basque community, which brings together hundreds of people from various parts of Argentina to share culture, language, traditions, and connections with Euskadi (the Basque Country).
During her speech, the vicelehendakari highlighted the commitment of generations of Basque-Argentinians to preserving their Basque identity and stressed the importance of keeping this legacy alive for future generations. She stated, “In an increasingly globalized world, it is essential to care for and maintain our roots. You have been doing this for many generations, and the great news is that the continuity of Basque identity in Argentina is assured. Katea ez da eten (the chain does not break).”
The first day's program included the opening gala of the National Basque Week, presentations of works in Euskara (the Basque language) such as Guiaspora by Martin Larraza and Euskara eta biok by Andrea Bella, as well as various cultural and sporting activities. These included pelota matches featuring members of the Basque Pelota Team, exhibitions of herri kirolak (traditional Basque sports), and the official opening of the event, which showcased performances by dance groups and musical ensembles from both the diaspora and Euskadi, including the Diasporako Orkestra Argentinarra, Tio Teronen semeak, and Xabi Solano, among others.
The National Basque Week serves as an annual meeting point to strengthen ties between Euskadi and the diaspora while highlighting the contributions of the euskal etxeak (Basque cultural centers) to the promotion of Basque culture, the Euskara language, and the values of the Basque community worldwide.
The vicelehendakari's institutional agenda in Argentina will continue over the coming days with various meetings and activities related to the Basque community and the promotion of Basque culture and language. Additionally, she has held meetings with the mayor of Villa María, Eduardo Acastello, and with authorities from the University of Villa María.
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