Chongqing - In recent years, Chongqing has seized the opportunity to accelerate the pace of building the city into a Hub for International Exchanges in Central and Western China, continuously integrating and expanding foreign affairs resources.

The city has increased efforts to invite foreign entities and expand its presence globally. As a result, Chongqing's international network has grown, fostering broader exchanges with sister cities, solidifying partnerships, and paving the way for a wider path of friendship.

Sister-city relations since 1983

On June 3, 1983, Chongqing and Seattle established sister-city relations, marking the beginning of a longstanding and fruitful friendship.

Founded in 1869, Seattle, situated in Washington state, stands as the largest city in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. Encircled by water and offering a breathtaking view from above, Seattle is often called "The Emerald City." Beyond its natural beauty, Seattle is a hub for trade, technology, healthcare, education, and culture in the Pacific region, hosting renowned institutions like the University of Washington.

The Scenic Views of Seattle. (Photo/The Foreign Affairs Office of the Chongqing Municipal People's Government）

Exchanges and collaborations across various sectors

Over the past four decades, Chongqing and Seattle have actively engaged in exchanges and collaborations across various sectors, including IT, architecture, landscaping, education, and healthcare, achieving significant milestones.

Despite the changing winds of international affairs, the friendly cooperation between Chongqing and Seattle has steadily progressed. In recognition of this enduring bond, the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries has presented the "Friendship City Exchange and Cooperation Award" to the city of Seattle, expressing gratitude for their contribution to international friendship.

The Celebration of the 35th Anniversary of the Chongqing-Seattle Sister-City Relation at Xihua Garden. (Photo/The Foreign Affairs Office of the Chongqing Municipal People's Government）

Since 1991, the governments of Chongqing and Seattle and citizens passionate about Chinese culture jointly funded and established the Seattle Chinese Garden—Xihua Garden. This garden, featuring the unique architectural style of Sichuan and Chongqing, not only symbolizes the friendship between the two cities but also serves as a vibrant embodiment of the convergence of Chinese and American cultures.

Xihua Garden has become a crucial site for foreign visitors to understand and learn about Chinese culture, acting as a vital window for deepening cultural exchanges between the two cities.

Building bridges of knowledge

Chongqing Municipal Education Commission collaborated with the University of Washington and the Seattle School District to establish the Confucius Institute in Washington State. Additionally, Southwest University and the University of Washington jointly established the International Joint Research Center for Drug Activity Evaluation.

Collaborative research initiatives between Chongqing Medical University and the University of Washington have focused on elderly care and medical studies.

Furthermore, Chongqing Nankai Middle School, Chongqing No.8 Middle School, and People's Elementary School have partnered with three schools in Seattle, establishing three Confucius Classrooms. Chongqing Nankai Middle School has also formed a friendly school relationship with Seattle's Sealth High School, fostering teacher-student exchanges, cultural experiences, and friendly basketball matches.

Chinatown International District – the Center of Ethnic and Cultural Diversity in Seattle. (Photo/The Foreign Affairs Office of the Chongqing Municipal People's Government）

Bridging histories and traditions

Chongqing Museum and the Burke Museum in Seattle have established a friendly museum relationship, engaging in exchanges related to excavating and preserving cultural relics, particularly in the Three Gorges region.

Activities such as book exchanges and mutual donations have occurred between Chongqing Library and the Seattle Public Library.

Chongqing's artistic troupe has visited Seattle, performing at events organized by the Confucius Institute in Washington State and drawing thousands of spectators and participants.