In 1994, Kunshan and Palmerston North (or “Palmy” for short) signed an Agreement on Friendly Communication and Cooperation, officially establishing friendly ties. Since then, the two cities have maintained close communication and deepened exchanges in the fields of economy, trade and culture, actively promoting mutual benefits and win-win outcomes.

   The Chinese often say, “Distance cannot separate true friends who remain close even when thousands of miles apart.” On the occasion of the 30th anniversary of the friendship between Kunshan and Palmerston North, a series of celebration activities were held simultaneously in both cities from January 25th to 27th, 2024.

    On January 25th, the signing ceremony of a Memorandum of Understanding Enhancing Friendship City Relationship between Kunshan and Palmerston North was held in Kunshan. Zhou Wei, Member of the Standing Committee of CPC Suzhou Municipal Committee and Secretary of CPC Kunshan Municipal Committee, and Ardi Barnard, Consul General of New Zealand in Shanghai, witnessed the signing. According to the memorandum, the two cities agreed to continue promoting exchanges and cooperation in the fields of economy and trade, science and technology, education, commerce, innovation, city engineering, tourism and sustainable development based on the 30 years of friendship, and upgrade the relationship to sister cities at an appropriate time.

    As the traditional Chinese Lunar New Year approaches, Palmerston North City Council held themed celebration activities on January 27th to commemorate the 30th anniversary between Palmerston North and Kunshan. Members of the Palmerston North City Council, officials, local residents, tourists, and invited foreign guests attended the event. Wang Genhua, Minister Counsellor of the Chinese Embassy in New Zealand, and diplomats from several countries also attended the event. Chen Liyan, Mayor of Kunshan, delivered a speech via video link.

▲Kunshan booth in Palmerston North

   Highlights of the event in Palmerston North included captivating cultural performances and authentic Chinese cuisine, allowing participants to enjoy music and dance with local characteristics from both cities and has deepened people’s understanding of Chinese culture and food.

    At the same time, from January 25th to 27th, Mayor Grant Smith of Palmerston North led a delegation to visit Kunshan. Chen Liyan, Mayor of Kunshan, Chen Zhao, Deputy Mayor of Kunshan participated in the activities.

    The delegation visited the exhibition showcasing the achievements of “Kunshan Way of Development that Advances with Times”, Zhouzhuang Ancient Town, Wansan Winery, Kunshan Museum of Chinese Opera, Duke Kunshan University, Huaqiao Senior High School, A+ Greenhouse, and the East China Agricultural Science and Technology Center of The Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, etc. They had in-depth exchanges on agriculture, education, cultural tourism, urban construction, and other fields with relative departments. 

▲Palmerston North delegation in Zhouzhuang, Kunshan

   Frequent interactions lead to enduring friendship. Kunshan and Palmerston North will take this opportunity to further consolidate and develop bilateral friendly relations, deepen cooperation in more fields, work hand in hand, and promote common prosperity and development. The two cities will cooperate to make new and greater contributions to promoting friendly exchanges between the peoples of China and New Zealand.

    Palmerston North is the sixth-largest city in New Zealand and serves as the hub of the Manawatū region in Lower North Island of New Zealand. It covers an area of nearly 400 square kilometers and has a population of over 90,000. The city boasts world-class educational and research institutions such as Massey University and Riddet Institute. Strong public sector investment and employment alongside robust private sector activity has supported the city’s economy with major industries including infrastructure and construction, agricultural food and technology, manufacturing, distribution and logistics, science, technology, health, and education. Palmerston North is also known for its beautiful natural landscapes, including the famous Tararua and Ruahine Ranges.