European Meetings - New EU, New Challenges

Between May 26^th and 30^th, 2004, within the framework of the town-twinning program, the delegations from Berlin, Neubrandenburg, Neumiinster, Roermond, Gladsaxe, Bourges, Seinajoki and Kristianstad took part in the "European Meetings" in Koszalin. Common meetings, discussions, sightseeing, visiting displays and cultural institutions were planned to indicate cultural diversity of Europe.

The "European Meetings" can be treated as an undeniable success. One of the most significant consequences of the event was a partnership agreement between the city of Koszalin and the city of Kristianstad (Sweden). The spirit of cooperation that prevailed during numerous conferences held by that time enabled all the parties to conduct constructive talks which will certainly result in better cooperation at all levels of the functioning of European communities. Meetings of such kind are platform to create new quality of cooperation between local communities which constitute the basis of the European Union.

A conference that took place in the Technical University was devoted to the idea of promotion and supporting young generation of Europeans. In the Municipal Culture Center, the representatives of twin-cities met at a conference on the exchange of experiences in provision of aid to disabled people in the light of the European Union regulations. There was also displayed a media presentation in order to make the guests familiar with Koszalin itself, its locality and numerous advantages of the Koszalin region. Issues such as culture, education, sport and the development of tourism were also discussed at the conference.

One of the focal points of the event was to integrate youth from the twinning towns since actions targeted at young people have the greatest chances to bring long-lasting effects. Young Europeans who visited Koszalin had the opportunity to get to know with Polish teenagers. In a historic "Executioner's House", a play was performed by a youth theatrical group from Denmark. There was also a meeting organized in the "Club of the European in Koszalin. Young people gave a presentation on the European Union and expressed their attitude towards the accession of new countries. Pupils from Koszalin Music College gave a concert of classic music in the Philharmonic of Koszalin and dance groups from twin towns presented their dancing skills during International Modern Dance Tournament.