Networking event in Sofia

Since May 2023 the International Offices of the City of Vienna have a new name. This was the topic of the annual networking event of the International Office of the City of Vienna in Sofia, which took place on 14 June 2023. This year's event focused on the new image of International Offices.

Team of the International Office of the City of Vienna in Sofia (from left to right): Irina Simova, Hrabra Marinova and Jassen Panov

The pleasant setting of the covered terrace of the Grand Hotel Sofia, overlooking the National Theatre building in the centre of the city, designed by Viennese architects, created a friendly and relaxed atmosphere, to which the guests themselves contributed greatly. Some of them are long-standing and loyal partners of the City of Vienna and its Office in Sofia, while others have recently joined the community of like-minded people working to bring the two capitals closer together.

Different name, same mission

In a short speech, the head of the office welcomed the guests and introduced the new name, City of Vienna | International Offices, and the most important changes for the rebranding and Restart 2023. She pointed out the stylish logo, which shows a close connection with the Austrian capital and emphasises the liaison role of the office. The main message was that the office will continue to work for the exchange of information and experience, the promotion of smart solutions in the modern city and the creation of closer contacts between key persons and experts of both cities. The main areas of cooperation between Vienna and Sofia are environment, climate change adaptation, energy transition, sustainable waste management, urban planning, mobility and smart city.

Recognition of the contribution to the relations between the two cities

The event was attended by key decision-makers, including two deputy mayors and six municipal directors, as well as the Austrian ambassador and influential representatives from the media, business, science and culture. During the discussions, memories of joint projects, successful delegation visits and workshops over the past years were revived. The guests expressed their gratitude for the already excellent cooperation with the City of Vienna and its International Office and once again emphasised the impeccable organisation of the projects. New ideas and visions for future cooperation in the fields of urban planning, culture, waste management, advertising and marketing strategies as well as citizen participation were also sparked.