On March 23, CLAIR Sydney staff attended the 2018 Sister Cities New Zealand Regional Collaboration Forum in Palmerston North, New Zealand.
The Forum was held to explore local government international relations. The forum brought together city, district and regional councils and Economic Development Agencies from the central North Island, along with key contributors from New Zealand government agencies. The focus was on the practical ways that we can work together for greater impact.
Diplomatic representatives were also invited to the forum to gain insight into engagement with New Zealand regions, and to discuss partnership opportunities.
Our Director got on the stage to talk about the Japan Local Government Centre and what we do, which in particular, are our support for sister city relationships and the JET Programme. Also, we promoted attractive travel destinations in Japan to the attendees.
The Forum concluded with a reception for the Palmerston North Festival of Cultures – World Food, Craft and Music Fair 2018, which all delegates were invited to join. CLAIR Sydney attended the opening ceremony of the festival with other diplomatic representatives on March 24.
We were delighted to be able to talk with SCNZ President Hiromi Morris, Palmerston North Mayor Grant Smith, Mayors, Councillors and General Managers of various councils in NZ at the Forum. We will continue to strive to improve our service delivery by cooperating with local councils in Australia and New Zealand.
