Stand With Ukraine facilitated an extraordinary meeting between the cities of Le Havre and Mariupol on October 20 and 21, 2023. A delegation from the Mariupol City Hall, led by Mayor Vadym Boychenko, visited Le Havre at the invitation of Mayor Édouard Philippe.
The purpose of this visit was to establish a partnership between the two cities, with a particular focus on sharing experiences related to the reconstruction of Mariupol, drawing inspiration from Le Havre’s rich history of rebuilding after World War II.
Foundations of Reconstruction
Le Havre, shaped by the visionary post-war design of Auguste Perret, stands today as a vibrant testimony to successful reconstruction. Seeking guidance and inspiration, Mariupol looks to Le Havre as a model and partner. Mayor Vadym Boychenko’s visit laid the groundwork for an exchange of expertise, providing a valuable opportunity to explore how a city can rise from ashes and reclaim its vitality.
The Mariupol delegation was welcomed by Le Havre’s Urban Planning and Renewal Agency, where discussions focused on the challenges and opportunities of urban revitalization. The delegation toured areas such as the Docks, the port, and the Saint-Nicolas district, highlighting the potential transformation of industrial spaces.
Meetings with representatives from the Tourist Office and Le Havre Seine Development showcased initiatives for economic and tourism development in the port city, emphasizing innovative concepts in hospitality, gastronomy, and cultural activities.
A highlight of the visit was the delegation’s tour of the École Nationale Supérieure Maritime, a prestigious engineering school training merchant marine officers and maritime engineers.
A Key Encounter
The centerpiece of the visit was a meeting with the Mayor of Le Havre and former French Prime Minister, Édouard Philippe. During this discussion, Philippe expressed unwavering support for the city of Mariupol and Ukraine. This was a pivotal moment to exchange visions and experiences regarding their respective cities.
This visit, organized by Stand With Ukraine, marked the beginning of a significant partnership between two cities with much in common. It was a powerful exchange of ideas, inspiration, and hope, strengthening ties between Le Havre and Mariupol while underscoring the transcendence of solidarity across borders.
Stand With Ukraine remains committed to fostering initiatives like these, which lay the groundwork for fruitful bilateral cooperation between France and Ukraine.
