Desenzano-Antibes Twin Cities Pact Boosts Cultural, Economic, and Environmental Ties
Crowd gathered in Piazza Malvezzi for the twinning between Desenzano and Antibes Juan-les-Pins. Within a richly decorated setting and in the presence of political and military authorities, a friendship pact was signed between the two municipalities, fostering mutual exchanges in culture, tourism, economy, social issues, education, and sports. An investment from a European perspective. After the concert by the town band, statements were made by the President of the Province of Brescia, Alberto Cavalli, who reaffirmed the organization’s support to ensure such initiatives are repeated, emphasizing the benefits they bring to both cultural and economic development. Regional Councillor Franco Nicoli Cristiani also shared this vision, highlighting the importance of having common and prestigious cultural roots: “Antibes was founded as a colony of Magna Graecia, while Desenzano boasts Roman origins; from this stems the full pride of being European citizens.” The Mayor of Desenzano, Felice Anelli, described the event as “an act of brotherhood between two communities eager to get to know each other and wishing to pursue joint projects within Europe.”
Shared Elements and Thanks
It is inevitable to once again underline the elements that unite these two cities: their tourism vocation, interest in environmental protection, and the close connection with water, a source of wealth and development for both. Water is also described as the “ideal symbol of this union, which, considering the uncertainties that the West faces today, is a strong assertion of civilization.” The mayor also expressed special thanks to the municipal assessors Marchioni and Garragna, who led this project to success.
Diplomatic and Symbolic Interventions
The Consul General of France also spoke, improvising in excellent Italian, addressing contemporary issues. He was inspired by the two towers present in the Desenzano coat of arms, which involuntarily brought to mind the tragic September 11 attacks. “Such events have further imbued this act of friendship linking France and Italy with symbols, projecting them into a common European future. It is precisely through such a celebration of brotherhood and shared ideals that we give the most important and decisive response to those madmen who aimed to undermine our peace.”
Conclusion and Celebration
Finally, Jean Leonetti, Mayor of Antibes Juan-les-Pins and Deputy of the Alpes-Maritimes, took the floor. After thanking for the warm reception, he expressed hope that it will be the youth who most benefit from this twinning—so that interests such as respect for the environment, love of history, and democratic values, which form the foundation of both communities, are not lost but mutually nurtured. The ceremony continued with the performance of the European anthem and the presentation of the town emblem and keys to the city to the mayor of Antibes. The signing of the twinning oath and its public reading followed, in Italian and French. The band then played the Hymn of Mameli, followed by the Marseillaise.
