France-Israel: Fostering Bonds through the Bussy-Kiryat Ekron Twinning

Beyond borders, the twinning of Bussy-Saint-Georges and Kiryat Ekron has managed to enhance ties, combining values of togetherness, respect and acceptance.

Bussy-Saint-Georges, a symbol of openness, celebrates 26 years of twinning with Kiryat Ekron. Photo courtesy of Houda Belabd.

To say that town twinning reduces distance and lowers barriers would be an understatement. A case in point is the French town of Bussy-Saint-Georges, located in the Seine-et-Marne department, which twinned with Kiryat Ekron, a town near Tel Aviv, in 1998. This 26-year-old adventure began with a desire to unite two communities with different backgrounds but similar values of togetherness, solidarity, and acceptance of diversity.

In Bussy-Saint-Georges, a new town at the heart of a booming Paris region, urban renewal and quality of life are at the heart of the municipal project. Once shaped by rapid growth and forward-thinking urban planning, the town is now a model of integration for its residents, where every culture has found its place. The city’s parks and gardens, architect-designed homes and ecological initiatives bear witness to a desire to build a harmonious living environment that respects the environment.

Kiryat Ekron, on the other hand, offers an entirely new charm thanks to its deep cultural roots, located near Rehovot, southeast of Tel Aviv. With its diverse population and close-knit community fabric, Kiryat Ekron is a model of integration for families of diverse origins, particularly from North Africa and Europe. The town’s lively markets, neighborhood cafés and community festivals radiate an energy that resonates with that of Bussy-Saint-Georges.

This partnership has given rise to numerous cultural and educational exchanges, enabling the inhabitants of each town to discover the rich traditions and values of the other. For example, teachers and students from Bussy had the opportunity to discover Israeli culture through cooking workshops, interfaith meetings and visits to historic sites. In return, young people from Kiryat Ekron were able to explore Paris and the surrounding area, while immersing themselves in the French art of living.

Towards a common future…

Today, as the world changes rapidly and global challenges multiply, the twinning between Bussy-Saint-Georges and Kiryat Ekron continues to evolve. Ecological and educational initiatives are playing an increasingly important role in their collaboration. Joint projects on recycling, renewable energies and water management are emerging, testifying to a shared environmental awareness.

This twinning shows that, despite the distance, values like tolerance, respect, and sharing are universal, and that cultures can enrich each other through connection. The bond between Bussy-Saint-Georges and Kiryat Ekron is a powerful example of openness and mutual understanding for the future.