Ganca, second largest city in Azerbaijan, was yesterday selected as European Youth Capital in 2016.The European Youth Forum awarded Ganca this title on the basis of applications received from the city, which focused on plans for serious work with local and European youths in various fields, including human rights, News.Az reported.Commenting on the award, the president of the European Youth Forum, Peter Matjašič, said: “We congratulate Gana for their strong, diverse and detailed proposal and their commitment to tackle issues such as youth participation, education, social inclusion, employment and volunteering”."Connection" will be a key theme for Ganca as European Youth Capital. The program aims to promote close cooperation across borders, and combine policy, research and practice for young people.

Ganca's rivals included Vilnius (Lithuania), Varna (Bulgaria), Galway (Ireland), La Laguna (Spain) and Badajoz (Spain).

ANN.Az