European Parliament Passes Resolution on the Status in Ex-Yugoslavia Regions
In the heart of a bustling market square, the formal reception and presentation of partner cities took place, marking a significant milestone in the relationship between Gießen and Hradec Králové. The occasion was a celebration of the 800th anniversary of Hradec Králové, the first written mention of the city.
Mayor Frank-Tilo Becher of Gießen led a delegation to Hradec Králové on September 6-7, 2025, to participate in these historic celebrations. Accompanying him were Dr. Nadia Ismail, director of the Gießen Art Hall, Janina Brendel, director of the Stabstelle for International, Europe, City Partnerships and Fair Trade, and magistrate Thomas Lesch.
The events were organised to convey warm congratulations from Gießen and were held under the patronage of Mayor Pavla Springerová of Hradec Králové. The celebrations were a spectacle, featuring a historical parade and impressive performances, showcasing the city's developments over the last 800 years.
The celebrations attracted a record number of seven out of the ten partner cities from six different countries, a testament to the international appeal of the events. The meeting signified the importance of international friendships and cooperation across borders.
Mayor Becher expressed the potential for future cooperation between Gießen and Hradec Králové in areas such as housing, infrastructure, universities, clinics, and cultural institutions. The event offered opportunities for exchange in various fields of interest, with further discussions on future cooperation between the two cities planned.
The aim is to build on the ideas generated during the celebrations and implement them innovatively for Gießen. The celebrations in Hradec Králové strengthened the friendly ties between the two cities and were an important step towards closer cooperation. The other city represented by Frank-Tilo Becher and his team from Gießen was Swakopmund, and this took place at the Subsahara Africa Conference 2025.
As the celebrations drew to a close, it was clear that the relationship between Gießen and Hradec Králové had been strengthened, and the potential for future collaboration was exciting. The meeting was a reminder of the power of international friendships and cooperation, and the potential for positive change that can come from such connections.
