Debrecen4U October 9, 2026

Debrecen and Shymkent in Kazakhstan Sign Twinning Agreement

Papp László, Mayor of Debrecen, and Gabit Syzdybekov, Mayor of Shymkent, signed a twinning agreement in the Kazakh city on 8 October 2026. Shymkent is one of the most important cities in southern Kazakhstan and has held special status as a city of republican significance since 2018. With a population of more than 1.2 million, it is the country’s third-largest city and an important economic, cultural and transport hub.

Oil refining, the chemical industry, metallurgy, mechanical engineering and food production all play significant roles in the city’s economy. Shymkent has an international airport, a major railway junction and an extensive road network, further enhancing its economic importance. In 2020, it was named the Commonwealth of Independent States’ Cultural Capital. Shymkent is also a regional centre for education, with several universities and higher education institutions offering a wide range of courses, particularly in engineering and technology, teacher training and healthcare. The city’s development has several parallels with that of Debrecen.

Debrecen’s General Assembly approved the twinning agreement proposed by Shymkent at its meeting on 24 September 2026. With the aim of fostering friendly relations between the peoples of Hungary and the Republic of Kazakhstan and expanding cooperation across various fields for mutual development, the two partner cities agreed to establish a twinning relationship based on mutual respect. Both parties agreed to cooperate voluntarily, on an equal, friendly and mutually beneficial basis, in the fields of the economy and trade, science and technology, education, culture, tourism, sport, the arts and other areas, promoting exchanges between the two cities.

As part of their efforts to develop cooperation, they will maintain direct contact to provide comprehensive support for economic development, create the conditions for scientific seminars, conferences and consultations, and keep each other informed about ongoing economic reforms. They will also encourage and support the preservation and protection of their cities’ cultural heritage. The two cities will organise reciprocal visits and maintain communication on matters of mutual interest in order to deepen cooperation across various fields.

The agreement entered into force on the day it was signed and is valid for an indefinite period.

Most recently, Debrecen signed twinning agreements with Kharkiv in Ukraine on 16 September 2026 and with Târgu Mureș in Romania on 19 September 2026. Shymkent is Debrecen’s 24th twin city.

Source and photo credit: debrecen.hu