Twinning delegation visit marks 50 years of friendship

A delegation from Kreis Heinsberg in Germany began a three-day visit to Midlothian on Friday to celebrate the 50th anniversary of being twinned with Midlothian. 

​Special reception

Midlothian Provost Debbi McCall hosted a special reception for the 22 visitors at Rosslyn Chapel on Friday evening.

​Honoured guests

Provost McCall said: “A warm welcome to our honoured guests. Midlothian Region has been twinned with Kreis Hensberg, an area in the Cologne district of Germany, since 1973. 

Strong ties​

“Over those 50 years, we’ve forged strong ties and taken the opportunity to learn about each other’s countries and cultures. 

​Shared experiences

“We’re looking forward to 50 more years of friendship, shared experiences and discoveries.”

​Weekend of culture

Led by Erwin Dahlmanns, the Chairman of the Twinning Committee and Deputy District Administrator and General Deputy of the Kreis Heinsberg district Philipp Schneider, the delegates enjoyed a packed programme over the weekend, including tours of the National Mining Museum Scotland, Dalkeith Palace and Edinburgh Castle.

​Fostering international understanding

Mr Schneider said: “We are delighted to be here in Midlothian to mark 50 years of friendship. More than 10,000 people have take part in our exchange programme and there’s has been 21 Friendship Festivals. Twinning helps foster international understanding, breaking down prejudices and helping us all get to know each other.”

In the picture​

In the picture from left to right are: Erwin Dahlmanns, the Chairman of the Twinning Committee and Deputy District Administrator, Provost Debbi McCall, General Deputy of the Kreis Heinsberg district Philipp Schneider, Council Leader Councillor Kelly Parry, Depute Consul General Holger Theissen of the German Consulate in Edinburgh and Depute Provost Douglas Bowen.

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