On July 19, the Ukrainian city of Liubar, Zhytomyr Oblast, and the American city of Monticello, Indiana, opened a new chapter in cooperation by signing a Sister City Agreement. USAID HOVERLA Activity supported communities in establishment of partnership.

“This agreement is one of the many transatlantic ties that will strengthen the bonds between our nations and will enable mutual understanding, cultural exchange, knowledge transfer, and economic cooperation between two remarkable cities – Liubar and Monticello. USAID’s support to this city-to-city partnerships reaffirms our solidarity with Ukraine and its people as well as our commitment to fundamental values shared by our countries – freedom, democracy, and diversity” – said Ann Hopper, Deputy Director of USAID Ukraine’s Office of Democracy and Governance.

This influential milestone in fostering cultural exchange, knowledge transfer, and economic cooperation will influence the life and economic connections between the cities as well as contribute to strengthening cooperation between two nations. Moreover, the partnership will enable a strong friendship for future generations as Indiana is a state of innovation and entrepreneurship and is eager to mentor their partners.

"Monticello understands the value of a warm welcome, deep friendship, and making new connections. We know that the people of Ukraine are famous for their hospitable spirit, and we are thrilled to establish a sister city relationship and begin to build a mutually beneficial partnership with Liubar. We are keen on creating new people-to-people connections, engaging in citizen diplomacy, and building ties that will last for many years," Cathy Gross, Mayor of Monticello, Indiana, USA, noted in her speech.

“We will always be glad to welcome our new partners from Monticello in our community, which is rich in resources and friendly people. I hope that the agreement signed today will be an incentive for the further development of our communities. I am convinced that close cooperation, in particular in the areas of culture, tourism, education and economy will be the basis for strong friendship for future generations and will form fraternal ties between our communities”, Volodymyr Herasymchuk, Mayor of Liubar, stated.

The assistance provided by the USAID HOVERLA Activity has been instrumental in setting the baseline for a strong partnership, enabling Ukrainian communities to explore their opportunities and establish new intermunicipal connections.

Gabriel Abraham, USAID HOVERLA Activity Chief of Party:

“The USAID HOVERLA Activity has the primary mandate of strengthening the local government and supporting Ukraine’s very successful decentralization reform. This Sister City Agreement is a very tangible manifestation of the efforts to strengthen local government through cultural exchange, knowledge transfer, and economic cooperation. I believe this agreement will mark the beginning of a transformative journey towards a brighter future for these cities.”