🇺🇦🤝🇫🇷 June 6, 2025, on the occasion of the International Summit of Cities and Regions held in Kyiv in the presence of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, the cities of Nantes, Saint-Nazaire, and Kherson signed a joint declaration, reaffirming their partnership established on May 15, 2025.
This cooperation is based on numerous shared features between the three cities, notably their geographical location at the mouth of an estuary. But beyond this commonality, it is part of a broader dynamic driven by the #MistoMatch program, which fosters the development of lasting ties between Ukrainian and French cities.
Above all, this partnership reflects concrete solidarity and a strong commitment. Since the beginning of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Nantes and Saint-Nazaire have mobilized by welcoming Ukrainian refugees, facilitating their integration, providing humanitarian aid, and displaying the Ukrainian flag on their city halls from the very first weeks as a sign of support.
The signing in Kyiv took place in the presence of Aziliz Gouez, Vice President of Nantes Métropole, who represented the local authorities on site. This commitment has been made possible thanks to the continued involvement of Johanna Rolland, Mayor of Nantes, and David Samzun, Mayor of Saint-Nazaire, whose support for the Ukrainian people has never wavered since the beginning of the conflict.
A special thank you to Vitalii Bielobrov, Deputy Mayor of Kherson, for bringing this partnership to life on the Ukrainian side. A powerful act, symbolizing a vibrant international cooperation, rooted in the needs of the people.
