The cities of Farkadona/Trikala/Meteora, Greece signed a partnership agreement on February 20 with the European Union International Urban Cooperation (IUC) programme to cooperate with Leh on sustainable urban issues.  

The agreement was signed by the Mayor of Farkadona, Ioannis Sakellariou on behalf of the Farkadona/Trikala/Meteora Municipalities.

By signing this agreement, the three Greek Municipalities will further engage with the partner city of Leh to develop a Local Action Plan on a mutually agreed area of cooperation and exchange best practices focusing on various sustainable urban development issues. This cooperation is part of the ongoing European Union International Urban Cooperation program where a total of 24 European Union and Indian cities share best practices and develop pilot projects. Through this programme, the City of Leh will align its urban development targets with international best practices and will experience sustainable benefits for the city.   

International Urban Cooperation programme boosts cooperation on sustainable urban development between European Union cities and partner cities in India, East Asia, North and South America.  

IUC/India is part of the corresponding global IUC Programme. It is financed by the European Union, and implemented by a consortium of GFA Consulting Group GmbH (leader) and CRISIL. Through the programme, local leaders will connect and gain new perspectives on pressing sustainable urban development issues. European Union and Indian cities are paired based on common priorities and development interests, allowing both parties to build cooperation and share knowledge. Representatives from both cities will attend exchange visits and together develop a local action plan to drive the cities' sustainable urban development.