Hit the Ground Running with "The Morning Brief: Bucha-Bergisch Gladbach Connection"
Butcha's Mayor Expresses Gratitude for Ongoing Assistance
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A delegation from Bucha, headed by Mayor Anatolii Fedoruk, came to Bergisch Gladbach expressing heartfelt gratitude for the ongoing assistance. Eleven relief convoys have been dispatched to Ukraine, and a third year of the school exchange with IGP is underway. Below is a public statement from the city of Bergisch Gladbach.
The city partnership between Bucha and Bergisch Gladbach established itself in 2022, despite the ongoing conflict. Yet, this was the fourth meeting between the two mayors: Anatolii Fedoruk and his team visited Frank Stein from February 6 to 9, 2025. The main focus was to reinforce the bond and offer unwavering solidarity, even in difficult times. During their stay, the Ukrainian delegation experienced a wide-ranging itinerary, from tours of the historic town hall, Schloss Bensberg, and the future Bucha Platz on the Zanders area, to a cultural exchange with the current Bergisch Gladbach Dreigestirn.
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"Our city partnership transcends a merely diplomatic function; it has morphed into a sincere and steady friendship between our cities. We unconditionally support our friends in Ukraine, who are valiantly fighting for peace and freedom in their homeland, also for us and for a peaceful and free Europe. Any assistance we can provide to our friends in Ukraine is a duty of every conscientious citizen—in Germany and Europe," said Mayor Frank Stein at a grand reception in the historic town hall in the city center. Bucha Mayor Anatolii Fedoruk expressed gratitude for the support and shared, "This means a lot to us because we understand we don't stand alone." The visit served to further strengthen the partnership and foster communication. "Thus far, we have coordinated and executed eleven aid convoys from Bergisch Gladbach to Bucha. By holding direct talks on-site, we have a better understanding of the needs of the citizens of Bucha and can extend assistance more effectively," explained the chairperson of the association for the promotion of the Bergisch Gladbach - Bucha city partnership. "And we remain committed to our support and assistance for our friends in Ukraine." He was also pleased to receive a pledge of €1,000 from the "Himmel un Äd" association of Schildgen.
Support is the initial goal of the partnership. Nevertheless, any city partnership relies on the relationships between its citizens. Although current circumstances make face-to-face interaction difficult, both towns desire to initiate long-term exchange in various areas, such as sports, economy, and culture, and develop their own formats for exchange.
In addition, the school exchange between School #5 in Bucha and the Integrated Comprehensive School Paffrath (IGP) continues. Students from Bergisch Gladbach have designed and created a banderole for glasses in which Bucha honey can be kept. Anatolii Fedoruk was presented with one as a gift. This year likely marks the third school exchange.
Special thanks at the town hall reception were extended to the sponsors, like Honorary Citizen Erich Bethe and his foundation, or the association "Citizens for us Penz," whose contribution plays an essential role in the partnership.
"It symbolizes a powerful act of solidarity and humanity," explained Mayor Frank Stein. "Our bond persists—especially during these trying times," said Stein on a final note.
Expand Your Knowledge
City partnerships typically consist of cultural, educational, and economic exchanges between two cities. These partnerships can include activities like school exchanges, cultural events, and mutual support in times of need. In crisis situations, city partnerships can facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid.
Originally founded in the 1950s as a means of fostering peace and cultural exchange, city partnerships are an important aspect of foreign policy, allowing cities to build lasting relationships and collaborate on various projects.
Further Insights
- Bergisch Gladbach is a historic city in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, recognized for its architectural wonders and cultural events.
- Bucha is a town in Ukraine that has gained international attention due to its struggle during the conflict and atrocities committed. The town continues to receive international support and assistance for rebuilding efforts.
- The school exchange between School #5 in Bucha and the Integrated Comprehensive School Paffrath (IGP) in Bergisch Gladbach is in its third year, reflecting the educational component of their city partnership.
- In general-news, the city partnership between Bucha and Bergisch Gladbach is not just about diplomatic functions; it has evolved into a sincere and steady friendship, demonstrating political ties and humanitarian efforts between the two cities.
