Wyndham council will enter the new year with a new approach to its foreign affairs following the adoption of an International Engagement Policy on 16 December.
The policy’s first objective is to enhance economic growth, cultural exchange, innovation, and community wellbeing guided by the principles of being purpose-driven, pragmatic and future-focused.
Differences between sister city and friendly city agreements are outlined, as well as markers for success in the respective relationships.
Council defines a sister city relationship as a formal, long-term partnership with significant administrative and financial commitment, focused on deep cultural, educational, and economic exchange.
Whereas a friendship city is noted as a less formal, shorter-term agreement with fewer administrative expectations, often used as a first step to gauge compatibility before a more formal sister city relationship is established.
Currently, Wyndham has sister city agreements with Costa Mesa, USA and Chiryu, Japan, while also maintaining a friendly city agreement with Changzhou, China.
Councillors Josh Gilligan, Preet Singh and Larry Zhao visited the latter in September last year with a $20,000 grant from Sister Cities Australia.
At the 16 December meeting, councillors also revealed they received an invitation from Godawari Municipality in Nepal to become a friendly city.
Cr Jennie Barrera said such a framework had been missing and was a way to strengthen existing relationships and evaluate new partnerships.
“Supporting this recommendation reinforces council’s reputation as one that engages internationally with intent, professionalism and integrity,” Cr Barrera said.
“It shows that our global engagement is guided by policy and not just symbolism.”
Cr Barrera also said that the offer from Godawari presents Wyndham with the chance to apply its new policy and utilise the benefits of having friendly city agreements.
“Importantly, it [friendly city agreement] has the potential for longevity while remaining flexible and reviewable. A friendship city is intentionally less formal, lower cost and lower risk.”
Growth in international investment, trade, or education partnerships linked to Wyndham, increased civic participation by diaspora groups in Wyndham and shared sporting initiatives were also flagged as key aims for formal arrangements.
However, the policy is careful not to step on the Commonwealth’s toes by recognising and endorsing federal legislation on foreign interference and international sanctions.
