Weifang, Hyuga deepen longstanding friendship

A delegation from Hyuga City, Japan, led by Mayor Satoshi Nishimura, visited Weifang, Shandong province, in April, adding new vitality to a partnership that has thrived for nearly 40 years.

During the visit, the delegation took part in several major events, including the 42nd Weifang International Kite Festival, the Diplomats and Sister-City Mayors' Tour, and the 26th China (Shouguang) International Vegetable Science and Technology Expo. These activities provided them with a closer look at Weifang's world-famous kite culture, its thriving vegetable industry, and the city's openness to international exchange. The group also visited the friendship school jointly established by Weifang and Hyuga, a lasting symbol of their educational and cultural ties.

Hyuga became Weifang's first international friendship city in 1986. Looking ahead, the two cities will celebrate the 40th anniversary of their partnership in 2026 with a commemorative event in Hyuga, for which the municipal government has already extended a formal invitation to Weifang.

Officials from both cities noted that the visit not only reaffirmed longstanding ties but also opened new avenues for cooperation in education, cultural exchange, and community development. With mutual trust and shared commitment, Weifang and Hyuga are set to carry their friendship into a new era, delivering tangible benefits to their people.