The Ukrainian city of Sumy, located near the front line, has officially established a twinning partnership with the French city of Orléans. This cooperation was formalized during the visit of Orléans’ mayor, Serge Grouard, to Sumy, where he met with local authorities, including the head of the regional military administration, Volodymyr Artiukh.

This partnership marks a historic milestone for Sumy and its region. It opens new opportunities for cooperation in the fields of education, culture, science, and support for the military sector. Volodymyr Artiukh expressed his gratitude to France, notably recalling the financial aid provided last year by the French Minister for Foreign Affairs, Jean-Noël Barrot, for the renovation of five schools in the region.

For his part, Serge Grouard emphasized the importance of supporting a region severely affected by the war. He praised the resilience and strength of the Ukrainian people and affirmed that Orléans and its residents stand with Ukraine in its fight for victory and peace. He expressed his conviction that this cooperation will be beneficial and will help bring essential projects to life for local communities.

This twinning further strengthens the bonds of solidarity between France and Ukraine, illustrating Orléans’ commitment to actively contributing to Ukraine’s reconstruction and peace.