Geelong has welcomed an international delegation in a first step to reigniting a long-standing inter-city relationship.
Delegation members from Japanese city Izumiotsu, led by Mayor Kenichi Minamide, arrived in Geelong to celebrate 30 years since the two cities signed the Friendship City relationship in 1996.
After years of regular visits from community members, students and officials, the relationship between the two cities became less active after 2017.
During the recent visit both parties explored a range of ideas to reactivate regular exchange between Geelong and Izumiotsu, including a marathon exchange program and a North Geelong Secondary School student exchange program.
They also discussed the work of the Geelong region’s Advanced Fibre Cluster and Japanese industries and toured a number of sites around the area.
Mayor Stretch Kontelj said the City of Greater Geelong welcomed the opportunity to expand the Friendship City relationship with Izumiotsu.
“International relationships are very important to us, putting Geelong on the map and encouraging bilateral exchanges that benefit our trade, economy and culture,” he said.
“It was great to welcome Mr Kenichi Minamide, and I hope they return to Izumiotsu with plenty to share about the great work we are doing here in Geelong.”
Councillor Elise Wilkinson said the delegation showed considerable interest in Geelong’s economy.
“We were able to showcase the brand new Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre to the delegation, and take them on a tour of Geelong Port,” she said.
“It’s great that Geelong is being recognised internationally for all of the opportunities which exist here.”
