The Unification of Berlin and Tel Aviv: A New Era of Cooperation
Berlin and Tel Aviv formalize collaborative alliance for mutual benefits and urban development. - Cities of Berlin and Tel Aviv seal urban collaboration pact
The cities of Berlin and Tel Aviv have officially solidified their friendship with a town twinning agreement. On May 5, 2025, Berlin Mayor Kai Wegner (CDU) and Tel Aviv Mayor Ron Huldai put pen to paper at the Red City Hall, aiming to strengthen ties in economy, culture, and other areas[1][2].
With the goal of elevating their existing bond, both mayors emphasized the importance of nurturing exchange opportunities for a new generation, fostering friendships, and eliminating hate and incitement[1].
Responsibility and Solidarity
Mayor Wegner underscored the unique role Germany plays in safeguarding Jewish life while defending Israel's right to exist[1]. In response, Huldai praised Wegner's solidarity in the wake of a devastating Hamas terrorist attack in October 2023, which claimed the lives of 1,200 individuals and over 250 hostages[2]. The Israeli guest politician also acknowledged the Berlin Senate's steadfast support against anti-Semitism.
Common History and Shared Values
Both cosmopolitan hubs share a troubled past, marked by scars of the past. However, these two cities have risen above their shared history to stand for peace, tolerance, and freedom[2]. Their partnership is built upon shared values centered on freedom and dignity[1].
Since becoming Berlin's 19th twin city, the agreement was sealed amidst ongoing regional conflicts, including the Gaza war preceding the Hamas terrorist attack[1]. Although the Palestinian Authority representative, Laith Arafeh, criticized Berlin's decision to twin with Tel Aviv, citing Israel's alleged genocidal actions, Berlin maintains fruitful partnerships with cities worldwide, including Brussels, Buenos Aires, Istanbul, Kiev, London, Los Angeles, and Beijing[2]. The partnership with Moscow is currently suspended due to tensions resulting from Russia's ongoing aggression in Ukraine.
- The community policy in Berlin and Tel Aviv, as outlined in their twinning agreement, endeavors to strengthen economic, cultural, and other ties between the two cities.
- The CDU, under Berlin Mayor Kai Wegner, has shown solidarity towards Israel, particularly in response to the devastating Hamas terrorist attack in Gaza, commending the Berlin Senate's stance against anti-Semitism.
- Despite criticisms from the Palestinian Authority representative, Laith Arafeh, over Berlin's decision to twin with Tel Aviv, the city continues to build partnerships with cities globally, such as those in Brussels, Istanbul, and Beijing.
- The politics surrounding the twinning agreement between Berlin and Tel Aviv, amidst regional conflicts like the Gaza war, underscore the importance of maintaining peaceful relations based on shared values like freedom and dignity.
