European networks will offer expertise on tactical and long-term challenges facing colleagues in Ukraine.
METREX and EMA have together pledged to explore ways to offer immediate and long-term help in the reconstruction of cities, towns and villages in Ukraine.
The pledge comes as vital infrastructures such as drinking water installations, power stations, public transport, have been devastated by the war.
In the immediate term, METREX and EMA will offer access to technical expertise embedded within their two respective networks, which comprise public authorities from across Europe.
In the long term, METREX and EMA will continue to build support links through a Ukraine-oriented network, including the Association of Polish Towns and Cities (ZMP) and the Ukrainian Association of Towns and Cities (AMU).
Henk Bouwman, secretary general of METREX, said: “The situation in Ukraine has been exasperated by attacks on the offices and internet infrastructures of local authorities, in some cases resulting in the loss of technical information and archives. METREX and EMA are ready to mobilise the considerable expertise within our networks to help our colleagues in Ukraine.”
Xavier Tiana, head of international relations at Barcelona Metropolitan Area, said: “In Katowice, the EMA network adopted a political declaration showing its commitment to be involved and to participate in the reconstruction of Ukrainian cities through political, economic and technical support.”
For more information please contact Stephen Gallagher, head of secretariat at METREX, on stephen.gallagher@eurometrex.org / +44 7840 436844 or contact EMA on ambmetropole@amb.cat.
About METREX
METREX is an established network of over 50 metropolitan regions and areas in Europe. METREX contributes the metropolitan dimension to policies, programmes and projects on a European scale. We host regular events and meetings for Members, either through Expert and Network Groups, our online METREXmonthly events, or bi-annual conference.
About EMA
European Metropolitan Authorities (EMA) is a forum for leading politicians from Europe’s main cities and metropolitan areas. This initiative was presented in 2015 by the Barcelona Metropolitan Area and has become a platform for political dialogue among metropolitan areas and cities, European institutions and national governments.
