Weifang, Anyang chart new chapter in sister-city partnership

The decades-long sister-city partnership between Weifang and Anyang, South Korea, has entered a new era of cooperation following a high-level delegation visit in late May. Their visit was a key highlight of the 2025 Shandong International Friendship Cities Cooperation and Exchange Week, a major provincial event that brought nearly 900 international representatives from 47 countries to the region.

As one of Weifang's earliest international partners, Anyang has been central to the city's global outreach. During the event, the South Korean city was honored with the "Outstanding Partnerships with Shandong" award at the Governors' Dialogue, a testament to the depth of their enduring sister-city bond.

The Anyang delegation explores a kite-making workshop in Weifang, celebrated worldwide as the "Kite Capital of the World". [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Following the forum, the Anyang delegation traveled to Weifang to explore the city's leading industries, from agricultural innovation and food processing to cultural tourism. Discussions between the two sides focused on advancing smart manufacturing, upgrading traditional sectors, and integrating culture with tourism to create new drivers of growth.

The delegation tours a modern farm in Weifang, gaining insights into the city's agricultural innovation. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

City leaders emphasized that the visit not only celebrated past achievements but also paved the way for emerging sectors. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to deepening sister-city collaboration, ensuring the partnership continues to deliver tangible benefits to their communities while reinforcing a foundation of lasting friendship.