Sasebo City is located in the northern part of Nagasaki Prefecture, blessed with abundant nature represented by the Saikai National Park’s “Kujukushima.” The city has a rich history as a former naval port that prospered and has evolved into an internationally diverse port city housing a U.S. Navy base. Additionally, it is known as a tourist city with attractions like Japan’s largest theme park, “Huis Ten Bosch.”
In June 1988, Sasebo City formed a sister city affiliation with Coffs Harbour City in New South Wales, Australia. Over the years, the two cities have deepened their exchange through activities such as the mutual student exchanges every year. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, interactions continued online. This year, Sasebo City and Coffs Harbour City will resume the exchange of young people between the two cities. They eagerly anticipate that the youth, who will play a crucial role in the future of both cities, will experience the local atmosphere and warmth of the people that cannot be fully felt through online interactions.
Last year, from the 22nd to the 27th of August, in celebration of the 35th anniversary of the sister city affiliation, Sasebo City implemented a dispatch project for a delegation of 31 members led by the mayor to visit Coffs Harbour City.
As a result of accumulated exchanges in the past, the delegation received courteous hospitality from everyone involved, including Coffs Harbour City and local private exchange organisations. Through commemorative ceremonies and exchange events, a fulfilling and friendly atmosphere was fostered. The delegation was able to contribute to further promoting their sister city exchange and reaffirmed the continuation of the wonderful friendship with Coffs Harbour City.
Moving forward, they will continue various exchanges, including student exchanges, to ensure the continued deepening and lasting nature of the relationship between the two cities.
Sasebo City will continue to foster a deeper, enduring relationship between the two cities by implementing various exchanges, including student exchanges.
