2025: Building stronger connections with sister cities

This year, the Zaporizhzhia City Council and the City Development Institute of Zaporizhzhia accomplished what had long existed mostly on paper — they restored active relations with the city’s international partners. Cooperation that once seemed paused is now being revived through joint projects, visits, assistance, exchanges, and new initiatives.

Linz, Austria. Following an online meeting in May, cooperation intensified in the autumn, with Linz donating four vehicles for Zaporizhzhia’s municipal services and generators for the city’s electric transport operator. In addition, twenty children from Zaporizhzhia spent two weeks on holiday in Linz.

Belfort, France. This year, Belfort invited artists from Zaporizhzhia to participate in the international competition Le Mois de la Photo, offering an opportunity to present Ukraine through the lens of contemporary culture. In the spring, an official delegation visited Belfort to learn about leading French practices in urban development and to explore new avenues for cooperation.

Birmingham, United Kingdom. Most recently, Zaporizhzhia has significantly strengthened cooperation with Birmingham. Current plans include joint initiatives in education, healthcare, and municipal development.

This expanding network reflects trust and collaboration. Over the past year, Zaporizhzhia has not only renewed its partnerships — it has demonstrated that a frontline city can be a reliable, forward-thinking partner for the world.