Cergy Extends Solidarity to Flood-Hit Huế
The French city of Cergy has announced a significant support package of €25,000 (approximately US$28,810) for its sister city, Huế, in central Vietnam, which is grappling with the severe aftermath of recent devastating floods. This gesture of solidarity underscores the strong bond between the two municipalities, established in 2018.
Deepening Sister City Ties
The relationship between Cergy and Huế has flourished since their sister city agreement in 2018, fostering cooperation in various fields including culture, education, tourism, and vocational training. Moussa Diarra, Cergy's Deputy Mayor for International Cooperation, highlighted that these relations are built on 'peace and friendship'. The annual 'Festival of Solidarity' in Cergy, a 25-year-old tradition promoting peace and cultural diversity, took on particular significance this year as Huế faced its natural disaster.
Huế Grapples with Severe Flood Aftermath
Huế and other central Vietnamese localities have recently endured some of the most serious natural disasters in many years. Heavy rainfall and upstream dam releases on November 17, 2025, caused widespread flooding in Huế, submerging major streets and riverside neighborhoods under 0.3–0.5 meters of water. Mountainous areas experienced even more extreme rainfall, with some locations recording over 500 mm. The floods have led to extensive damage, including the collapse of a 14.2-meter section of the Huế Imperial Citadel wall in early November. Across central Vietnam, the death toll from the floods has tragically reached 90, with 12 people still missing, and hundreds of thousands of homes inundated.
Cergy's Concrete Support and Future Plans
The €25,000 support package will be formally submitted to the Cergy City Council for approval in December. In a direct expression of concern, Jean-Paul Jeandon, the Mayor of Cergy, has already sent a letter of solidarity to Huế's leadership. Further demonstrating their commitment, a delegation from Cergy is scheduled to travel to Huế on December 5 to engage directly with local officials, discuss specific needs, and finalize projects for support. The aid is specifically earmarked to assist in the purchase of essential items for recovery, such as seeds, livestock, aquaculture supplies, and agricultural products, crucial for helping affected communities rebuild their livelihoods. Beyond official channels, the Vietnamese community residing in Cergy has also mobilized, actively coordinating with the city authorities to provide targeted emergency assistance.
5 Comments
Michelangelo
This feels more like a PR stunt than meaningful aid.
Leonardo
Fantastic to see Cergy stepping up! True solidarity.
Michelangelo
It's encouraging to witness international cooperation in times of crisis, showcasing the spirit of global community. Yet, one has to wonder if this specific amount is truly impactful enough to address the scale of damage, including the historical citadel wall.
Donatello
The sister city relationship is clearly valuable for fostering international ties. Still, the emphasis on agricultural supplies, while important, might not cover all the immediate humanitarian needs of those displaced.
Michelangelo
While the gesture of solidarity is commendable and sends a positive message, the delay until December for council approval means critical immediate needs might go unmet. Speed is often key in disaster relief.