U-LEAD with Europe consistently supports cooperation between municipalities, especially between municipalities of Ukraine and EU countries, in particular Spain, Italy, France.
The first annual meeting of the Bridges of Trust was held, which brought together representatives from Ukrainian and European municipalities, alongside Local Self-Government Associations, EU institutions, and allied organisations collaborating in the rebuilding of Ukrainian municipalities and forging a path towards EU membership. Attendees included the Solidarity Fund Poland, the Slovenian Centre for European Perspective (CEP), NALAS, and ALDA.
This annual gathering at the House of Cities, Municipalities and Regions aims to present good practices, exchange successful factors for cooperation, especially between small and medium-sized municipalities, and discuss potential sources of funding available for EU municipalities when cooperating with their partners from Ukraine. On this occasion, those municipalities with the most advanced cooperations present their reconstruction and modernization-related projects and share recommendations for successful cooperation with participants.
CEMR, in partnership with U-LEAD with Europe, has established a support network for Ukrainian municipalities, enhancing cooperation and aid to local communities. Angeliki Mavridou, Advisor to the Programme Director of U-LEAD, stated:
"We are very thankful to the mayors who came to Brussels, and we are impressed by the results of these collaborations. Municipal partnerships are currently at the centre of attention, and we see the significant benefits they bring in terms of solidarity and expertise."
Durmish Guri, Director of External Resources at CEMR, underscored the event's significance, stating:
"It is crucial for European and Ukrainian municipalities to unite and establish trust-based connections, ensuring the sustainable recovery of Ukraine.”
The event, held at the CEMR Secretariat in Brussels, facilitated knowledge sharing and valuable recommendations for successful cooperation. The Bridges of Trust Gathering symbolises solidarity, determination in adversity and hope for the Ukrainian people.
Let's foster international cooperation with new effords and knowledge!