From 16 to 18 June, a delegation from the City of Sorbiers travelled to Burshtyn, its partner city in Ukraine. Members of the Sorbiers Twinning Committee, together with Marie-Christine Thivant, who played a key role in developing this partnership until the end of her term as mayor in March 2026, met to discuss the initiatives already carried out and future projects.
The visit included:
- a visit to a high school currently undergoing modernisation;
- the discovery of a modern and accessible administrative centre;
- a dynamic youth centre;
- and a kindergarten.
The delegation also took part in a commemorative ceremony at the Heroes’ Memorial, paying tribute to those who gave their lives for Ukraine. This solemn moment highlighted the difficult reality that the population continues to face on a daily basis.
Sorbiers and Burshtyn share common values, a strong commitment to solidarity, and a shared desire to move forward together despite the challenges.
As part of this ongoing cooperation, a new concrete project is being prepared: thanks to the commitment of the municipality, local residents, and financial support from SIEL, solar panels combined with a battery storage system will be installed in Burshtyn. This equipment will contribute to improving conditions for children in the long term.
One year after welcoming children from Burshtyn to Sorbiers for a respite stay, this initiative once again demonstrates that human connections, the desire to better understand one another, and cooperation between local communities can lead to concrete projects, strengthen solidarity between peoples, and build lasting friendship.
A huge thank you to everyone who helps bring this partnership to life and makes it possible to imagine many more future projects between Sorbiers and Burshtyn.
