On April 11, 2024, Ukrainian mayors and representatives of the European Union participated in the International Summit of Mayors held in Dănceni, Moldova. The event centered on fostering cooperation between European and Ukrainian cities, with Stand With Ukraine in attendance.
Among the 480 participants, around 60 were mayors and representatives from Ukrainian communities, seeking to strengthen ties with the European Union and other nations. This fifth edition of the International Summit of Mayors, founded by Iryna Ozymok—a strong advocate for the development of Ukrainian cities and communities—sparked discussions on innovative urban management solutions, particularly in combating corruption, enhancing transparency, and fostering local-level cooperation. Meetings between mayors provided opportunities to exchange ideas and establish new partnerships.
Maia Sandu, President of Moldova, host of the summit, emphasized the crucial role of the “civilized world” in supporting the reconstruction of Ukrainian cities and highlighted the importance of European integration and EU programs for local development. Since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Moldova has been a significant supporter of Kyiv. As a neighboring country aspiring to join the EU, Moldova faces its own challenges, including pro-Russian separatist regimes in Transnistria—home to Russian troops—and Gagauzia, both backed by Moscow.
During the summit, a session titled “Strength of Partnership” showcased success stories of city partnerships, focusing on joint projects, challenges faced, and solutions implemented. Ten city pairs were awarded for their collaborative efforts, with half of the projects involving Ukrainian partners.
Key points highlighted during the summit included:
- Financial support for Ukraine remains essential: Protecting urban infrastructure is a priority.
- Private investments are a key lever for reconstruction: These are crucial for building resilience in Ukraine.
- The war’s demographic impact is severe: Improving quality of life and economic stability is vital to encourage displaced Ukrainians, particularly skilled professionals, to return.
- Cities and communities play a central role in Ukraine’s resilience: Strengthening local cooperation is imperative.
The full-scale invasion of Ukraine by Russia continues to threaten all of Europe. European nations’ support and cooperation are indispensable to ensuring Ukraine’s resilience. Now more than ever, cities and local communities are at the forefront of humanitarian aid, reconstruction, and innovative development projects.
Since February 2022, Stand With Ukraine has been actively contributing to this cooperation, supporting over 60 partnerships between French and Ukrainian cities, such as the recently formalized agreement between Paris’ 18th arrondissement and Podil district in Kyiv on March 28.
