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Sofia and Semarang join forces for sustainable mobility and civic participation
Sofia is to help the Indonesian city of Semarang to develop its tram network as part of the International Urban and Regional Cooperation (IURC) programme.
Mayor of Sofia Yordanka Fandakova and city officials welcomed the delegation from Semarang earlier in March to share best practices and specifics of tram transport as well as Sofia’s progress towards sustainable mobility.
As part of the visit, the delegation visited tram depots and the main tram transport management centre as well as rode on old and new trams.
Besides the tram network, delegates expressed interest in Sofia’s parking system and zoning, noting that the area has potential for cooperation and exchange of good practices.
They also showed interest in different ways of cooperation between local authorities and residents aimed at addressing issues.
City officials showed the delegation a database of recommendations submitted by residents and their feedback on proposed and implemented projects, and programmes aimed at promoting direct participation of residents.
Delegates from Semarang announced plans to implement similar projects to stimulate civic participation and help city authorities and residents to discuss and implement solutions to issues that the city is facing.
Indonesian and Bulgarian officials discussed the next steps of cooperation with a focus on investments in large infrastructure projects.
(Photo credit: Sofia)
