I invite any Nelsonians with an interest in or links to the USA or Canada to a public meeting at The Prince Albert next Tuesday, 28 May, from 5pm about forming a Nelson Friendship and Sister City Association with this part of the world.
Nelson’s future is in being an outward-looking city. Our key sectors such as fishing, horticulture and forestry depend on trade. International connections also matter to our tourism, international education, science and tech sectors.
The Sister City movement began after the horror of World War II under US President Eisenhower with the purpose of encouraging people-to-people contact. It needs reinvigorating. We have had the recent disruption from Covid. Global tensions and conflicts are on the rise. Growing nationalism is a threat to peace and increased protectionism to our prosperity.
Nelson has had Sister City relationships with Miyazu in Japan, Eureka in the USA and Huangshi and Yangjiang in China. The Japan relationship has been active and strong and is the second oldest Sister City link in NZ. The Nelson committee and Council recently received a national award for the redevelopment of Miyazu Park. The Nelson branch of the NZ China Friendship Society is also strong and did our city proud last weekend hosting the national conference.
The USA relationship has been in abeyance for years and the three remaining committee members retired last year. We have been approached about a Friendship or Sister City relationship with Portsmouth, New Hampshire. I am enthusiastic about Nelson having a renewed relationship with the USA. It is the world’s largest economy and hugely influential in global affairs.
Council is ready and willing to support a reinvigorated relationship with North America but the success will depend on volunteers who have a love and interest in growing the linkages. The Councillor leading our international relationships, Cr Trudie Brand, and I welcome your feedback.
We live in an isolated corner of one of the most remote countries in the world. We are seeking help in citizen-led diplomacy so Nelson is better connected.
