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Western Australia has established strong international relationships with five sister states, forming strategic cultural and economic alliances across the globe. These sister states include East Java in Indonesia, Hyōgo Prefecture in Japan, Andhra Pradesh in India, Tuscany in Italy, and Zhejiang Province in China. These connections promote cross-cultural exchange and mutual development, fostering long-term partnerships that benefit both regions.
The relationship with Hyōgo Prefecture is particularly significant, having begun in 1981 with the goal of strengthening cultural ties. In 1992, the Hyōgo Prefectural Government Cultural Centre was opened in Perth to celebrate the 10th anniversary of this partnership. Additionally, the Western Australian government established an office in Kobe, Hyōgo’s largest city, in 1989 to further support the relationship.
The bond between the two regions was tested during the 1995 Great Hanshin earthquake, when Western Australia mobilized to assist with emergency relief and reconstruction efforts. The state raised funds, sent supplies, and sent volunteers to aid the recovery. In 2001, a memorandum of understanding was signed to enhance economic cooperation between Western Australia and Hyōgo Prefecture, marking 20 years of collaboration.
Beyond this, Western Australia has cultivated further connections with Japanese cities, including the City of Rockingham, which signed a sister city agreement with Akō in 1997. This adds to the nine sister city relationships Western Australia shares with various Japanese cities.
These ongoing sister state agreements with regions in Asia, Europe, and beyond reflect Western Australia's commitment to fostering global relationships that enhance cultural exchange, economic development, and mutual support.