The Municipality of Beit Sahour Enhances Its International Presence in France and Strengthens Its Relations with French Cities

France - Afaq News - The Mayor of Beit Sahour, Laith Hazem Qumsieh, concluded an official visit to the French Republic, accompanied by municipal council member Ms. Lina Al-Qazha. The visit included the capital Paris and the city of Vaulx-en-Velin, aimed at enhancing international relations for Beit Sahour and developing twinning and cooperation with French cities and institutions.

The delegation began its visit on October 1 with a meeting with the Ambassador of the State of Palestine to France, Ms. Hala Abu Hasira, at the Palestinian embassy in Paris. The two sides discussed ways to enhance coordination and cooperation, and to open new horizons for partnership between Beit Sahour and French cities, municipalities, and institutions, in support of local development, exchange of experiences, and strengthening the Palestinian presence on the international level.

The city of Vaulx-en-Velin witnessed a wide official and popular program on October 2 and 3, at the invitation of its Mayor, Mr. Abdelkader Lahmar, with the participation of municipal council members, representatives of local institutions and associations, several members of the French parliament, political and public figures, along with a large crowd of the city's residents and the region.

In a politically and symbolically significant moment, the Palestinian flag was raised at the front of the Vaulx-en-Velin Town Hall, in the presence of the mayor, municipal council members, the Ambassador of the Republic of Nicaragua, several Palestinian political figures, and a large crowd of citizens and representatives of institutions and communities. This step was a manifestation of solidarity with the Palestinian people and a representation of the relationships that connect Vaulx-en-Velin with Beit Sahour and the importance of cooperation between cities and peoples.

The delegations from both municipalities held working meetings that addressed areas of cooperation and exchange of experiences in municipal work and local development, along with meetings with institutions, associations, and youth activities, to enhance the transformation of the twinning relationship into practical and sustainable partnerships.

During the visit, the history of the relationship between the two cities was highlighted through the delivery of the document "Charter of Friendship and Solidarity between Fon Fula and Beit Sahour," confirming the continuity of the relationship and the commitment of both sides to build upon it.

On October 3rd, Fon Fula witnessed a significant milestone with the naming of a street in the city after "Beit Sahour," during an official ceremony attended by the Palestinian and Nicaraguan delegations, municipal leaders, and official and political figures, alongside the planting of an olive tree, symbolizing the friendship and international cooperation between the cities.

The mayor confirmed that naming a street in a French city after Beit Sahour represents an important milestone in the history of the relationship between the two cities, embodying the presence of a Palestinian city's name in the French public space.

Qumsieh stated that twinning relations should not be limited to visits and official occasions, but should transform into practical partnerships in the fields of culture, tourism, education, sports, local development, and the exchange of experiences, emphasizing Beit Sahour's appreciation for the municipality of Fon Fula and its people for their warm reception and supportive positions for Palestine.

The delegation also participated in the "Echo of Palestine" events, which witnessed broad political and community attendance, addressing the Palestinian issue from political, humanitarian, and cultural dimensions, alongside activities to introduce Palestinian heritage, cuisine, and culture.

For his part, the Mayor of Fon Fula, Abdel Kader Lahmar, affirmed his city's pride in the relationship it shares with Beit Sahour, emphasizing the importance of international cooperation between cities and its role in enhancing communication and understanding among peoples.

The visit comes as part of Beit Sahour Municipality's efforts to strengthen local diplomacy and expand its network of international relations, benefiting from sister city relationships to support development, exchange experiences, and enhance the city's presence and the Palestinian cause in international forums.