The Ukrainian city of Samar (formerly Novomoskovsk), located near Dnipro, and the Israeli city of Rishon LeZion, part of the Greater Tel Aviv metropolitan area (Gush Dan), have signed an important Memorandum of Partnership and Cooperation in various fields. This marks one of the stages in the process of becoming “sister cities,” which in Hebrew is called “Brit Arei Teomot,” literally translated as “a union of twin cities.”
The Memorandum of Partnership and Cooperation was signed by the Mayor of Samar, Serhiy (David) Rieznik, and the Mayor of Rishon LeZion, Raz Kinstlich. The Samar City Council’s website emphasizes that “This cooperation is based not on formal agreements but on mutual understanding between people. Both communities have experience living under constant tension and challenges, so the dialogue is built on trust and shared values. International partnership opens opportunities for Samar to implement humanitarian initiatives, cultural exchanges, and joint projects. At the same time, it strengthens the community’s presence on the international level and creates additional points of support.”
The Mayor of the Ukrainian city of Samar, prominent public figure Serhiy (David) Rieznik, specifically noted: “I have always believed that international partnership makes sense only when real people stand behind it, not just signatures on paper. It is with this feeling that we signed the memorandum of partnership between Samar and the Israeli city of Rishon LeZion. For our community, this is a step toward support and mutual understanding between people who know what it is like to live in the reality of war, tension, and constant trials. International ties provide a simple and important feeling: we are not alone. They help preserve our community’s voice in the world and open opportunities for humanitarian and cultural cooperation. Rishon LeZion knows well the value of resilience and solidarity. And we in Samar do not know it from books either. That is precisely why our cities easily find common ground. Ahead lie joint initiatives, exchanges, and concrete actions. The most valuable thing is that a living connection already exists between our cities, one that works for people and for the sake of people.”
