Wellington and Ramallah sign Friendly City Agreement
Photo:
Supplied / Wellington City Council
Wellington and the Palestinian city of Ramallah have signed a partnership agreement aimed at promoting collaboration and cooperation between the two places.
The Friendly City Agreement was signed simultaneously by Mayor Tory Whanau in Wellington and Mayor Issa Kassis, who joined online from Ramallah.
Whanau said she was proud to formalise the partnership.
"In light of the genocide in Gaza, this partnership serves as a powerful symbol of solidarity and hope. It is through such relationships that we can promote understanding and work towards a more peaceful future."
Kassis said the agreement marked a milestone for the people of Ramallah and all Palestinians.
"At a time of profound hardship for our nation, this gesture of friendship resonates deeply.
"It embodies the values of solidarity, dignity, and international cooperation. We look forward to building strong bridges between our communities and working together to advance peace, cultural exchange, and mutual understanding."
Whanau and Kassis held their first online meeting in April last year and during their discussion explored how to foster collaboration between the two cities.
In 2023, Wellington City Council voted to initiate a Friendly City relationship with Ramallah, the first step towards becoming sister cities.
Ramallah has a population of about 85,000 people and is located 16 kilometres north of Jerusalem on the West Bank.
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