11 November connects three European neighbours in a special way and builds a bridge between remembrance and the future: Whilst in France this day is traditionally set aside to commemorate the historic armistice of 1918, Poland simultaneously celebrates its National Independence Day – the day on which the country regained its sovereignty after a long period of partition. For the Saarpfalz district, this historic date is an opportunity to look to the future and actively promote the ongoing integration of people, regions and nations in the heart of Europe.
This year’s Polish Independence Day has been overshadowed by the tragic events in Poland. The devastating attack in Kraków, in which an armed assailant committed an unprecedented act of violence in the Main Market Square, has also caused deep consternation in the Saarpfalz district. District Administrator Frank John and the European Affairs Officer, Dr Violetta Frys, expressed their heartfelt sympathy and solidarity to their Polish partners and the entire population. “In these difficult days of mourning, we stand firmly alongside our Polish friends,” emphasised District Administrator Frank John.
“From our own history and the experiences of previous generations, we know how valuable stability, freedom and security are. This makes us all the more confident that today we stand side by side, as equals, with our partners in the French département of Moselle and in our partner counties in Poland. Our partnerships are a striking example of how neighbours become true friends and how, on a small scale, Europe continues to grow closer together day by day.”
Cross-border cooperation is a reality in the Saarpfalz district. For decades, the district has maintained close ties with its immediate neighbour, the Moselle department. This Franco-German cooperation has long since become a natural part of everyday life and embodies a modern Europe in which borders connect rather than divide.
Similarly, the district values its partnership ties with Poland, which on 11 November proudly commemorates its sovereignty and its unshakeable commitment to freedom. It is precisely in these geopolitically challenging times that it becomes clear just how valuable solidarity, reliable dialogue and mutual support – in the spirit of the Weimar Triangle between Germany, France and Poland – are for the future of the entire continent.
“11 November shows us just how much potential lies in our shared journey,” District Administrator John continued. “It serves as a powerful reminder that, following a long and painful history of suffering, the former bitter enemies of the two world wars have today become true friends at the heart of Europe. However, this friendly coming together is not a static state, but a living endeavour that we shape together in our regions – through personal encounters, mutual respect and a strong sense of community.”
On 11 November, the Saarpfalz district therefore extends warm greetings to all its partners in France and Poland – together with a shared commitment to a peaceful, free, secure and united future in Europe.
Information on the Saarpfalz District’s district partnerships and its work on European affairs is available from the European Affairs Officer and Head of the European Affairs Unit, Dr Violetta Frys, on tel. (06841) 104-8273 or by email at [email protected] and [email protected].