Edward River Council took a new step in international relations with the signing of a Sister City Agreement with Lozova City, Ukraine during a ceremony held via video conference on 17 October 2023.
The new agreement came about after Edward River Council's Mayor Cr Peta Betts and Deniliquin resident, Bill Hetherington, initially sought interest from Edward River residents, industry groups and peak bodies to support Ukrainian refugees with job opportunities and accommodation in May 2022.
There was strong support from the community, particularly from the agricultural sector – sowing the initial seeds of the Sister City Agreement.
Cr Betts met with the Ukrainian Ambassador, His Excellence Vasyl Myroshnychenko to discuss what support Edward River Council could provide to the people of Ukraine and explore opportunities for partnership.
After analysing economic, geographic and demographic profiles, a friendship agreement between Edward River and Lozova City in Kharkiv Region, Ukraine was proposed, to promote goodwill and friendly relations between both cities and countries.
"I'm delighted to sign this agreement today, establishing a relationship with the city and the people of Lozova," said Cr Betts. "Our municipalities share much in common, including a focus on the agricultural and industrial sectors, and being important transport and trade centres within our regions."
Discussions between Cr Betts, Edward River CEO, Phil Stone, Mayor of Lozova, Mr Serhiy Zelensky and his Secretary, Mr Yuriy Kushnir via video conference, assisted by a translator, have been friendly and respectful with all contributors outlining their willingness to establish a fruitful and productive inter-city relationship based on cultural exchange and potential economic benefit.
Cr Betts said "Lozova is embarking on a journey toward reconstruction and revitalization. Our cities, working together, can look forward to mutually positive benefits including cultural exchange, establishing economic relations and implementing joint projects.
"It's a very exciting milestone and we look forward to moving forward together in a spirit of friendship and camaraderie."
