Strengthening Cultural Ties: Odesa Delegation's Visit to Vienna

The Mayor of Odesa, Hennadii Trukhanov, along with the Director of the Department of Culture, International Cooperation, and European Integration, Ivan Liptuha, met with the First President of the Vienna Parliament, Ernst Woller, and the head of the Office for European and International Relations of the City of Vienna, Alena Sirka-Bred, to discuss key aspects of cultural collaboration.

For many years, Odesa and Vienna have maintained productive partnership ties, particularly in the fields of culture and heritage preservation.

Mr. Woller shared Vienna's experience in architectural preservation and the management of UNESCO World Heritage sites, such as the "Historic Centre of Vienna".

He emphasized that preserving history is vital for future generations in all cities and countries.

Even through historical challenges, Austria has managed to retain its architecture, culture, and arts, adapting the context to new realities while always preserving cultural achievements.

"Today, Vienna is rightly considered a world capital of culture and art, and it also wins awards for smart innovations in cities," said Ernst Woller.

Hennadii Trukhanov highlighted that Odesa is known for its cultural, literary, and musical heritage. He also mentioned the "Golden Violins of Odesa" festival, which is celebrating its tenth anniversary this year.

"We are pleased that our anniversary festival, "Golden Violins of Odesa", will take place in the capital of Austria. The experience of Vienna in balancing heritage preservation and urban development is extremely beneficial for Odesa, which is currently working on managing UNESCO heritage sites amid wartime conditions," emphasized Trukhanov.