The concept of twinning (International Partnerships) began in Europe as early as the turn of the 20th Century. The number of twinning links increased significantly after the Second World War to aid the process of peace and reconciliation and in the 1970s and 1980s, following the UK's entry into the Economic European Community (EEC).
Twin Towns
The Royal Borough is twinned with the following Towns:
- Neuilly-sur-Seine, France - established 1955 with Royal Borough of New Windsor.
- Saint-Cloud, France - established 1957 with Maidenhead.
- Bad Godesberg, Germany - established 1960 with Maidenhead.
- Goslar, Germany - established 1969 with Royal Borough of New Windsor.
- Frascati, Italy - established 1972 with Maidenhead.
- Kortrijk, Belgium - established 1981 with Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead.
International Partner Towns Committee
Aims of the Committee
- To promote and develop further the friendship links which have been established by the Royal Borough and its international partner towns (Bonn-Bad Godesberg and Goslar (Germany), Saint-Cloud and Neuilly-sur-Seine (France), Frascati (Italy) and Kortrijk (Belgium)) and those of other towns with which the Committee may form partnership links.
- To broaden the mutual understanding of the cultural, recreational, sporting, educational and commercial activities of the partner towns by encouraging all organisations and individuals, particularly children and young people, within the Borough to participate in exchange and partnership activities and to develop their own contacts.
- To consider, advise upon, facilitate and co-ordinate, where necessary proposals of local organisations and individuals relating to partnership activity.
- To consider and make recommendations on any proposals relating to international partnership which require the approval or support of the Borough Council.
Value of International Partnerships
- To create, develop and foster international friendship and goodwill.
- To provide a better understanding of people of other nationalities and their ways of life.
- To combat prejudice, discrimination and insularity among people of different nations.
- To stimulate interest in and help in learning other languages.
- To provide opportunity for many, who might not otherwise do so, to travel abroad.
- To widen educational, cultural, sporting and social opportunities.
- To discuss common problems and establish 'best practice' solutions.
- To weave a web of affection in the hearts and minds of our communities and, thereby, avert future conflicts.