Marking 65 years of international friendship and a shared future

This past weekend, I had the pleasure of welcoming friends and partners from our twinned towns - Fontainebleau in France and Konstanz in Germany - for a programme of events marking the 65th anniversary of our twinning relationships.

“In a world where conflict is increasingly common, twinning promotes shared learning, creates opportunities for young people, and links our borough to a broader international story of collaboration and friendship.”

We hosted a welcome reception at Orleans House Gallery, a Leader’s Breakfast, and a Civic Dinner. We also brought the community together through over 50 vibrant events, including the lively Future Sounds Fest Stage on Whittaker Avenue in Richmond Town Centre where young bands from the twinned towns had a chance to show their talent, and a joyful Parade and Picnic that welcomed everyone to join in the celebration. We gathered at York House in Twickenham, signed the twinning oath, and joined residents and visitors for a joyful public celebration with music, food, and laughter. The European Youth Orchestra’s performance was a standout moment, where young people from across Europe playing in harmony, both literally and symbolically.

While the formal programme was rich and varied, the weekend’s true value lay beyond the ceremonial. It offered a moment to reflect on the beliefs that shape our twinning relationships: encouraging cultural exchange, building friendships, and connection especially among young people to a wider global community rooted in mutual respect.

In a world where conflict is increasingly common, twinning promotes shared learning, creates opportunities for young people, and links our borough to a broader international story of collaboration and friendship. When we welcome guests from Fontainebleau and Konstanz, we’re not just hosting dignitaries; we’re opening our doors to neighbours, friends, and fellow citizens of the world.

Thank you to everyone who contributed to making this weekend a success - our service teams, volunteers, community partners, all the clubs, orchestras, bands, dancers and our guests from Fontainebleau and Konstanz. Your involvement highlighted the strength of our ongoing partnership. We look forward to continuing this European partnership over the next 65 years and more.

Get involved

While many of the key events have taken place, the celebrations are not yet over. A number of activities are still ongoing, and I encourage you to explore the events that are still to come. You can also pick up a Twinning Reaffirmation Event Map at Twickenham Civic Centre, York House, the Visit Richmond kiosk in Richmond Station and at our 11 local libraries.

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