The City of Burnaby is renewing its cultural and economic ties with one of the fastest-growing cities in South Korea, building key international relationships to benefit Burnaby residents.
“As thriving, dynamic cities, both Burnaby and Hwaseong City share much in common. Our communities are home to innovative businesses and technology sectors that are shaping the future, as well as cultural scenes that enrich the daily lives of our residents,” said Mayor Mike Hurley. “In these challenging economic times, it is more important than ever to foster strong international friendships and we’re thrilled to be renewing our Sister City relationship with Hwaseong City.”
“On behalf of Hwaseong City, I wish to thank Mayor Hurley and the City of Burnaby for their warm welcome. The rapid growth of both our cities highlights the increasing importance of strengthened cooperation,” said Mayor Jeong Myeong-geun. “The signing of the memorandum of understanding symbolizes our shared commitment to enhancing practical cooperation through cultural, economic and youth exchanges.”
City officials met with a delegation from Hwaseong City at Burnaby City Hall on August 25 to sign the renewed Sister City agreement, which will remain in effect until 2030.
The renewed Sister City agreement outlines key areas of collaboration:
- Economic and industrial exchange
- Education and youth exchange
- Promotion of culture, arts and tourism
- Sports and civic engagement activities
- Climate change response and sharing of sustainable urban policies
- Other areas mutually agreed upon as necessary
Located in the western area of the Korean Peninsula, Hwaseong City has grown rapidly over the last 20 years and now has a population of over 1 million. Hwaseong City enjoys the largest area of farmland of any city or county in Gyeonggi province.