Celebrating 60 Years of Friendship Between Odesa and Yokohama
Odesa is celebrating 60 years of partnership with Yokohama, Japan.
This week, the city is hosting Japanese Culture Days in honor of this significant anniversary.
Today, the I.Ya. Franko Central City Library became a hub for visitors to explore the enchanting world of Japanese culture.
Creative youth groups and young artists from Odesa showcased Japan's rich cultural heritage and traditions.
The Ambassador of Japan to Ukraine, Mr. Masashi Nakagome, expressed unwavering support for Ukraine in a video message and emphasized the importance of cultural cooperation for strengthening ties between our nations.
The Yokohama City Hall also participated in the celebration through a video presentation, allowing guests at the photo exhibition to learn more about our sister city.
“Odesa is honored to call Japan a friend. Exactly 60 years ago, we became sister cities with Yokohama. Our relationship exemplifies stable international friendship and cultural exchange,” said Ivan Liptuga, Director of the Department of International Cooperation, Culture, and Marketing.
Yokohama provides assistance on many levels: Odesa receives vital humanitarian support, organizes exchanges for youth in arts and sports. Together, we are restoring a kindergarten after an attack, developing cogeneration technologies, and formulating a post-war recovery plan for the city.
This is a story of true friendship that transcends borders, language barriers, and cultural differences.
The best expression of gratitude from Odesans will be to engage with this beautiful culture, honor our partnership, and remember its history.
