Bethlehem and Barcelona Mayors Hold Strategic Meeting to Advance Economic Recovery, Youth Empowerment, and Tourism Development

During a working visit aimed at strengthening international support and advancing development projects, Bethlehem Mayor Mr. Hanna Hanania met with Barcelona Mayor Mr. Jaume Collboni, in the presence of Municipal Council Member Ms. Lorette Abu Jaber and Director of the Planning and Projects Department Eng. Ziad Al-Sayeh. The meeting focused on strengthening the partnership between the two cities and translating their cooperation into practical initiatives that benefit Bethlehem and its residents.

Mayor Hanania expressed his deep appreciation for the longstanding and unwavering support of Barcelona City Council and its mayor for the Palestinian cause, as well as the city's particular commitment to Bethlehem. He emphasized the importance of this partnership in supporting Bethlehem and strengthening its capacity to address ongoing economic and development challenges.

A key focus of the meeting was the proposed agreement to implement Bethlehem's Economic Recovery Project, alongside a review of ongoing joint cooperation initiatives. The two sides also discussed the "11th District – Cities of Palestine" initiative, launched by Barcelona to support Palestinian cities, and the practical steps recently undertaken in Amman in partnership with the Association of Palestinian Local Authorities.

For his part, Mayor Collboni expressed his pleasure in welcoming the Bethlehem delegation and reaffirmed Barcelona's continued commitment to supporting the Palestinian cause at various levels. He also highlighted efforts to expand the international network of solidarity and cooperation by encouraging cities worldwide to join the "11th District" initiative.

Following the meeting, the delegation visited Barcelona Activa, where members learned about the institution's experience in incubating entrepreneurial ideas, supporting entrepreneurs, and managing and developing business initiatives. Discussions explored ways to incorporate these experiences into programs that Bethlehem Municipality plans to launch in early 2027. These programs will include training workshops and initiatives designed to support young entrepreneurs in transforming innovative ideas into viable projects, contributing to local economic revitalization and the creation of new employment opportunities.

The visit continued with a technical meeting with Barcelona City Council's Planning and Projects Department, dedicated to reviewing the proposed design for upgrading the entrance to Bethlehem's Central Bus Station. The project aims to enhance the area's tourism appeal and improve the experience of visitors arriving in the city. Both teams agreed to introduce the necessary design modifications and finalize preparations for issuing project tenders in early 2027.

On the final day of the visit, Mayor Hanania participated in a meeting bringing together all stakeholders supporting the "11th District – Cities of Palestine" initiative. In his address, he discussed the current situation in Palestine generally, and Bethlehem specifically, highlighting the growing challenges faced by Palestinian municipalities in delivering essential services and responding to residents' needs.

He emphasized the vital role of support provided by international partners in strengthening municipalities' resilience and enabling them to implement their development priorities. He also called for the continuation of the initiative beyond 2027 to ensure the sustainability of its impact and build upon its achievements for the benefit of Palestinian cities and their communities.

These meetings reflect Bethlehem Municipality's ongoing efforts to transform its international partnerships into tangible development projects that improve municipal facilities, strengthen the local economy, and create new opportunities for the city's youth.