December 6, 2023, will remain a landmark day of cooperation and solemn commitment between the Île-de-France Region and Ukraine.

The forum titled “Île-de-France and Ukraine: United in Action” took place at the region’s headquarters, bringing together significant delegations from both sides, as well as representatives of associations dedicated to the cause, including Stand With Ukraine. Here is a look back at a day filled with a shared vision of mutual aid and collaboration.

The Ukrainian delegation, led by Ukraine’s ambassador to France, Vadym Omelchenko, included deputy governors Lesya Karnaukh (Kyiv Oblast) and Kostyantyn Mehem (Chernihiv Oblast). The mayors of the Ukrainian cities of Kruty, Boiarka, and Hostomel were also present, bringing with them the spirit and diversity of Ukraine.

On the French side, the delegation was led by Valérie Pécresse, President of the Île-de-France Region, accompanied by Pierre Heilbronn, special envoy of the President of the Republic for Ukraine’s reconstruction. Several mayors from cities in the Île-de-France region also participated in the event, underlining the importance of local engagement in this international cooperation.

During her opening speech, Valérie Pécresse announced major initiatives:

  • The region will provide 10,000 digital tablets to schools in Kyiv and Chernihiv Oblasts by the end of the year.
  • This gesture will be complemented by the transfer of essential school supplies, including computers, chairs, tables, and boards, at the start of the following year, thereby contributing to the improvement of learning conditions in these Ukrainian regions.

Madame Pécresse also expressed her desire to maintain and develop academic partnerships between the Île-de-France Region and Kyiv and Chernihiv Oblasts. She called on all cities in the region to commit to twinning agreements and partnerships with their Ukrainian counterparts, highlighting the importance of these intermunicipal ties in promoting mutual understanding and cooperation.

At the end of her speech, a symbolic signing of intent took place between Valérie Pécresse and the Ukrainian delegation, renewing their mutual commitment to strengthening the ties between the two regions.

The event was also marked by the presence of numerous engaged associations, each playing a crucial role in supporting Ukraine. These included Stand With Ukraine, Aide Médicale et Caritative France-Ukraine, Les Amis de la Culture Ukrainienne en France, Association SAFE, the Fédération Nationale de Protection Civile, Maison de l’Europe de Paris, and Maison de l’Ukraine at the Cité Internationale Universitaire de Paris. All these associations participated in a networking space where they had the opportunity to present their actions and accomplishments to the attendees.

The highlights of the day included conferences featuring various political, associative, and economic stakeholders, such as Romain Desthieux, Director of Ukraine Business France, who shed light on the challenges facing Ukraine and emphasized the opportunities for collaboration with the Île-de-France Region and French businesses.

A key moment of the day was the signing of twinning agreements, in which the Stand With Ukraine association played an active role. Strong links were established between the cities of Boiarka and Palaiseau (91), Kruty and Santeny (95), and Koriukivka and Chaville (92). These partnerships represent tangible bridges fostering a deeper understanding and fruitful exchanges between communities, thereby strengthening the bonds of friendship between the Île-de-France Region, Ukraine, and the Kyiv and Chernihiv Oblasts.

The “Île-de-France and Ukraine: United in Action” forum demonstrated the power of international solidarity and the ability of regions to unite their strengths to tackle global challenges. This event will remain a significant milestone in the construction of a lasting partnership between Île-de-France and Ukraine, showcasing warm and fruitful collaboration for a brighter future.