Zaporizhzhia and Linz reaffirm sister city ties with new initiatives

On May 7, Acting Mayor of Zaporizhzhia, Rehina Kharchenko, held an online meeting with the newly elected Mayor of Linz, Dietmar Prammer, and his team. Representatives of the Zaporizhzhia City Development Institute also took part in the discussion on strengthening cooperation between the sister cities.

After a pause due to the recent elections, Zaporizhzhia successfully resumed direct dialogue with its longstanding (since 1983) and reliable sister city in Austria.

During the conversation, Mayor Prammer reaffirmed that the city of Linz would continue supporting Zaporizhzhia. A key topic was humanitarian aid that could be provided soon. This includes firefighting and emergency response equipment, community vehicles, and office equipment. Final decisions on the aid package will be made following consultations with relevant departments in Linz.

Special emphasis was placed on support for children and youth. Linz is currently preparing a summer recreation program for young people from Zaporizhzhia, which will include psychological support, sports, and cultural activities.

The meeting also touched on new formats of cultural cooperation, particularly participation in a cultural festival in Linz and hosting an exhibition in Zaporizhzhia.

We sincerely thank Mayor Prammer and his team for their openness and commitment to cooperation. There is much work ahead, but meetings like this inspire confidence and reaffirm that Zaporizhzhia has strong and dependable partners on its path to recovery.