"Today we are not just celebrating an anniversary. We are celebrating a living piece of Europe. A relationship between two cities, between people, between cultures - grown over five decades, characterized by numerous encounters, close friendships, joint projects and mutual respect," said Lord Mayor Mende, who has taken on the patronage of the anniversary year, in his speech. "Town twinning has a long tradition in Wiesbaden and we are proud of all our partnerships. What began with an official twinning document back in 1976, still between Naurod and Fondettes, has developed into a genuine bond of friendship over the years. Behind this bond are not only political declarations of intent, but also the many committed citizens, associations, schools, choirs, sports groups and, above all, many personal stories." Mende continued: "Especially at a time when international cooperation can no longer be taken for granted and nationalism is becoming louder again, a partnership like this is an important sign. It shows that understanding is possible. Friendship is possible. And Europe is more than just a political idea - it is a living reality when people like you and us fill it with heart. I would like to thank everyone who makes this partnership so lively. The willingness to provide private accommodation in families is also unique. Over the years, some families have made their own homes available for visitors from the partnership more than 40 times. This commitment is priceless. And it is the foundation on which we can continue to build in the future."

The French delegation was represented by Philippe Bourlier on behalf of the Mayor of Fondettes, Cédric de Oliveira, among others. He signed the Golden Book of the state capital Wiesbaden during the reception. Nicolas Bergeret, the Consul General of the Republic of France, was also present at the ceremony.

In addition, Nicole and André Doireau were awarded the Citizens' Medal in Gold for their many years of service to the town twinning. Both also signed the Golden Book. Nicole and André Doireau are founding members of both twinning associations. "I would like to express my deepest gratitude and appreciation for your decades of tireless commitment to the twinning of Fondettes and Naurod. For both of you, the town twinning was never a tourism project - you always saw it as a human, family matter. It was about encounters, friendship and mutual respect," said Mende. On July 14, 2024, both were awarded the "Palme d'Excellence" by the Fondation du Bénévolat. "You have built bridges over many years with your warmth, your energy and your friendship - between people, generations and countries," concluded Mende.

The partnership between Wiesbaden and Fondettes was established on May 11, 1975 by the then still independent municipality of Naurod. In the course of the incorporation of Naurod in 1977, the town twinning was transferred to the state capital of Wiesbaden. The twin town of Fondettes is visible everywhere in Naurod: signs at the entrances to the town and other places in the district, the Fondettes coat of arms next to the Naurod coat of arms as a mosaic in front of the baroque church in the town center and the main street also bears the name of the twin town. The town twinning between Naurod and Fondettes is characterized by mutual friendship visits.

The small French town of Fondettes is around 800 kilometers from Wiesbaden, lies seven kilometers northwest of the city of Tours in the Centre-Val de Loire region and has around 10,000 inhabitants. One of the most impressive buildings is Châtigny Castle, which was built in 1487. The history of Fondette dates back to Roman times, when the first settlements were built on the banks of the Loire at the edge of the Touraine moor.

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