The value of friendship between cities

In an age where distances feel increasingly short but differences can still divide us, the value of friendship between cities takes on renewed meaning.

Fontainebleau is proud to reaffirm its twinning agreement with Richmond upon Thames and Konstanz – a long-standing partnership built on mutual trust, cultural exchange, and a shared European spirit. This agreement is not just symbolic. It is rooted in decades of dialogue, visits, school exchanges and collaborations that continue to enrich us all.

At a time when global challenges test our sense of unity – from environmental concerns to questions of identity and belonging – twinning is more relevant than ever. It reminds us that cooperation begins on a human scale: between citizens, schools, artists, youth groups, and local institutions.

I am deeply convinced that these relationships help shape open-minded, curious, and responsible generations. They offer our young people a taste of other ways of living, thinking, and building the future. They foster understanding beyond borders – and that is a foundation for peace.

I warmly thank our friends in Richmond and Konstanz for their commitment to this spirit of cooperation. Together, we are showing that friendship is not a relic of the past, but a living bond that inspires creativity, solidarity, and hope.

Let this reaffirmation be not only a celebration of what we have achieved, but also a promise to continue building, learning, and growing together.

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