“Our cities stand firmly by the side of the people of Ukraine. We want to continue providing humanitarian aid and we want to support the reconstruction of Ukraine. The consequences of the terrible Russian war of aggression are devastating. The people of Ukraine can count on our solidarity.
The German cities welcome the fact that the Federal President’s visit to Ukraine is sending a signal of continued willingness to help. We support the appeal to form further partnerships between German and Ukrainian cities.
Our cities make an important contribution to the people and cities of Ukraine. Before the start of the war there were 73 town partnerships or friendships between German and Ukrainian towns. A lot of trusting cooperation is practiced in these connections. 34 cities have now been added. There is often a short line between the city administrations and intensive relationships between clubs, schools and other civil organizations. The German-Ukrainian partnership conference in Augsburg at the beginning of October also impressively demonstrated the great level of commitment. Representatives from German and Ukrainian municipalities came together for a professional exchange and at the mayoral level.
Material and humanitarian aid for the people in Ukrainian cities is in the foreground at the moment. But there are already plans for reconstruction – for schools, hospitals, apartments, transport links and much more.
Many forces have to work together to rebuild the devastated cities and regions. It is important here that the many years of experience of the cities are included in the planning for the reconstruction and that this is worked out together with the municipalities.
The numerous relationships offer an excellent basis of trust.
Strong cities are the core of democracy. That’s why we want to continue to get involved in strengthening decentralized structures in Ukraine and providing concrete support to administrations.”
