Central Coast Council has confirmed its commitment to maintain ties with two regions, the Japanese city of Edogawa and the NSW town of Walgett, and will investigate the continuation of a sister city relationship with Nitra, Slovakia.
Mayor Jane Smith and Chief Executive Officer, Gary Murphy, will formally enter into discussions with the Gosford Sister City Association about future roles, responsibilities and opportunities. Mayor Smith said Sister City relationships traditionally build cultural awareness and understanding between communities, and current arrangements had proved beneficial to the Central Coast.
“Our relationship with Edogawa, in particular, has delivered huge benefits to the Coast, particularly for our youth, who have participated in exchange programs, and for the investment in our Regional Gallery,” she said.
“Partnership agreements are also important and that is why we are continuing the agreement with Walgett Shire Council, that started in 2007 with the former Gosford City Council, which focuses on sporting and youth exchange programs.” The former Gosford City Council’s sister-city relationship with Nitra in Slovakia expired in 2012 and will now be reviewed with a view to renewing this association. Any further requests for sister-city relationships will be reported to Council for consideration.
Source: Media release, Sep 10 Central Coast Council media