In what the Emfuleni Local Municipality described as a moment of pride, Mayor Hassan Mako officially welcomed delegates from Tai’an, China, on July 16. Present at the occasion were members of the Mayoral Committee, Chief Operations Officer Mothiba Mogofe, and ELM Executive Directors.

The purpose of the meeting was to sign a Sister City Agreement, aimed at building stronger ties in governance, economic opportunities, skills development, and cultural exchange.

A sister city relationship is a long-term, cooperative relationship between two cities in different countries through which cultural, educational, business, and technical exchanges take place. It is formalised when two mayors (or the highest elected/appointed officials) sign a memorandum of understanding establishing a sister city relationship.

The ELM said the partnership will open new doors for collaboration, learning, and growth between the two cities.

Addressing the delegation, Mako said, “We welcome this partnership with open hearts. For the people of the Vaal, this means investment in our youth, support for local businesses, and new platforms for our artists and entrepreneurs to showcase their talent globally.”

ELM reiterates that the relationship is about creating a better future for the people of Emfuleni.