Two decades of city collaboration between Oberasbach and Riolo Terme
Town of Oberasbach, Germany, marks 20 years of blossoming partnership with Riolo Terme, Italy
In a heartwarming commemoration, the citizens of Oberasbach celebrated the 20th anniversary of their partnership with Riolo Terme, Italy. This milestone was acknowledged in a meeting attended by around 30 residents and their Italian counterparts in Riolo Terme. The mayors, Birgit Huber from Oberasbach and Federica Malavolti from Riolo Terme, sealed the bond's continuation by signing a new agreement.
At the gathering, Huber traced the roots of the partnership back to its genesis through the initiative of French friends, leading to a broad and significant European network. The formal relationship began with the signing of documents in 1999 at the Altenberg primary school in Oberasbach, followed by an identical ceremony in Riolo Terme. Over two decades, personal friendships have complemented the official connections that have strengthened the bond between the two towns.
Recognition was directed towards the Oberasbach Cultural Association, which swiftly provided unbureaucratic aid following a flood disaster in Riolo Terme two years ago. The association achieved this through a successful fundraising campaign. The anniversary celebration was accompanied by the ARTOberasbach artist group, which highlighted the cultural ties through a special exhibition in Riolo Terme.
The long-standing partnership between Oberasbach and Riolo Terme has fostered mutual understanding, economic development, and educational exchange. The alliance has encouraged collaborative projects in art, music, and craftsmanship, as well as efforts in historical preservation. Over the years, the connection has also facilitated trade and business relationships, resulting in economic growth for both communities.
The citizens of Oberasbach acknowledged the Oberasbach Cultural Association's role in providing aid following the flood disaster in Riolo Terme, strengthening the bond between the towns through unbureaucratic support. In addition to fostering mutual understanding and economic development, the long-standing partnership has also encouraged collaborative endeavors in home and garden, with outdoor-living spaces serving as a bridge between both European towns.