Guam is an island located in the central region of the western Pacific Ocean, with an area of 544 km ² and a population of approximately 170,000 people (as of 2021).

The resident population of Guam is ethnically diverse, composed of the indigenous Chamorro people and other ethnic groups, including Japanese, Koreans, Filipinos, Chinese, White Americans, etc. Foreign culture has a great influence on Guam's cuisine, giving it its rich flavors and variety.

Guam is known for its white sand beach and crystal clear ocean waters and has summer all year round. The clear warm waters that surround the island attract visitors from around the world for diving, snorkeling, and varied marine activities; economic development primarily depends on tourism, with over 1.52 million international tourists arriving in Guam yearly, mainly from Korea, Japan, and Taiwan.

The close bond between Taichung City and Guam in recent years can be attributed to the frequent medical collaborations and education exchanges. The two places share multiple connections in geography and history. Taichung City and Guam are located at the midpoint of the first and second island chains of the Pacific Ocean respectively, each occupying a significant strategic military position in the Indo-Pacific region. Most notably Guam, serving as the key military base for the United States in the Pacific. Frequent flights between the airports of Taichung and Guam can be traced back to the time when the U.S. military was stationed in Taichung. On February 23, 2022, the two parties officially signed the Taichung-Guam Sister City Agreement to foster in-depth cooperation in the fields of economy and trade, tourism, healthcare, culture, sustainable city, etc. for mutual benefits.

Nature of Tie

Sister City

Emblem

City

Uvs Province, Mongolia

Brief

　　Uvs Province is named after the largest lake in Mongolia – Uvs Lake. It’s a northwestern province in Mongolia that’s on the border to Russia and the capital is Ulaangom. The land area is 69,000 square meters with a total population of 80,000 people. The province is consisted of 60% forestland and 40% Gobi semi-desert.   

The main industries of the province are livestock and light industry. The value of raw materials for the livestock industry has increased. For example: wool, processing of textiles and animal leather, leather products, meat processing factories, and flour factories, etc. The typical continental climate, soil quality - containing iodine and soil salinization, and other elements of the natural environment, help to produce what Mongolians refer to as the “king of fruits” –seabuckthorn with a high consumption value. Uvs has an abundant mineral industry, and there is an abundant amount of lake salt and the high quality “rose rock” (a type of rock salt) due to the large amount of saltwater lakes in the province. Within the Uvs Province there is the Gobi Desert, high mountains, and towering grasslands. The Uvs Lake Basin where Uvs Lake is located was named in the “World Heritage Site” in 2003. In addition to viewing the lake, one can also go fishing, horse riding, and camel riding. In addition to experiencing the nomadic lifestyle, one can also go trekking or hiking because of the geographic terrain which has lakes and mountains. 

Uvs Province proactively participated in the 2018 Taichung World Flora Exposition and displayed its unique Mongolian yurt. The two parties with a mutual understanding of establishing a sister city relationship, chose November 4, 2018 as the agreement signing date when Uvs Province Governor D. Batsaikhan led a delegation to attend the 2018 Taichung World Flora Exposition. The agreement states that for all bilateral advantages in the industrial, agricultural, and tourism sectors, that there be mutual marketing and collaboration. Furthermore,implement educational and sports networking to deepen the interaction between the two cities’residents. 

Official Website

http://www.uvs.gov.mn/

Alliance Date

November 4, 2018

Hosts

Mayor Chia-Lung Lin
Uvs Province Governor D. Batsaikhan

Location of Agreement

Taichung City

Nature of Tie

Sister City

Emblem

City

Petah Tikva, State of Israel

Brief

Petah Tikva is located east of Tel Aviv. Also named "Mother of Moshavot", it is the first village established by Jews in 1878. Officially upgraded to city status in 1937, Petah Tikva became one of the four main cities under the Central District (one of six main administrative districts in Israel), and the sixth largest city in the country. There are currently 33 communities, covering an area of 35.9 square kilometers which is home to 240,000 people (2016 statistics). Petah Tikva belongs under the central business district of Tel Aviv. With an advantageous geographical location, it is a transportation hub for Israel, and a favored location for living, working and doing business.

Industries, businesses, technology, humanities and education prosper in Petah Tikva. Main industries here include textiles, rugs, food processing, tires, rubber products, and soaps, etc. The city hosts the three largest industrial centers in Israel, Segula, Kiryat Arieh and Ramat Siv. It is the Israeli home to international technology companies and start ups such as Oracle, IBM, INTEL, Alcatel-Lucent, ECI, and GlaxoSmithKline. In addition, the 7 best medical facilities of the country are located in this city, comprising Rabin Medical Center, Beilinson Hospital, Hasharon Hospital, Schneider Children's Hospital, Davidoff Cancer Research and Treatment Center, Geha Psychiatric Hospital and Assuta Hospital.

Schools in Petah Tikva offer diverse classes, such as radio classes, telecommunication classes, movie classes and theatre classes, etc. Every year, students and teachers from Petah Tikva win many educational awards granted by the governor. In particular, the unique education system won Petah Tikva the title of "Israeli City of Education" in 2006.  Cultural activities are mostly held at the cultural center, which hosts plays, concerts, songs and dance, etc., further adding to the city's multicultural feature.

On February 14, 2018, Petah Tikva became the first Israeli city to hold sister city status with Taichung, and Taichung became the first East Asian sister city of Petah Tikva. Apart from elevating Taichung's friendly image and reputation, Petah Tikva looks to become the forefront of Taichung's pursuit in extending Israeli and Middle Eastern city diplomacy, thereby promoting exchanges in diverse fields including technology, education, and trade. This has a positive effect on Taichung City Government's internationalization efforts.

Official Website

Alliance Date

Feb. 14, 2018

Hosts

Mayor Chia-Lung Lin

Mayor Itzik Braverman

Location of Agreement

Petah Tikva City

Nature of Tie

Sister City

Emblem

City

Columbia, South Carolina, U.S.A.

Brief

The City of Columbia is located in central South Carolina (referred to as "SC" here forth) with an area of 346.5 square kilometers, and a population of 130,000 people. Including satellite towns on the periphery of Columbia Metropolitan Area, the population is 820,000. Apart from being the location of the administration center for the second largest county, Richland County, it is also home to the South Carolina State House Office, making it the most important city in central SC.

The City of Columbia is well developed in industry, business, technology and tourism. There are 11 universities and colleges in the area including the University of South Carolina and Columbia College. It is the political, economic, cultural and education center of SC.

The City of Columbia was founded in 1786, and is one of the earliest cities designed and established in the USA. The city has good indoor cultural facilities, parks and recreational facilities. In recent years, it was also voted as one of the "50 most livable cities in USA". Columbia's economy encompasses diverse industries. The American energy company SCANA, the biggest military training base Fort Jackson, north American diesel engine system headquarter of German company Siemens, Pirelli tires, Westinghouse Electric and over 70 foreign companies and 14 of the 500 US companies have branches here.

On March 12, 2014, a delegation led by Mayor Stephen K. Benjamin visited Taichung City to sign the sister city agreement, making Taichung the first Asia-Pacific sister city of SC. Not only does it elevate Taichung's friendly image and reputation in Southeastern USA, it is also a positive drive on Taichung City Government's internationalization efforts.

Official website

https://www.columbiasc.net/

Alliance Date

Mar. 12, 2014

Hosts

Mayor Chih-Chiang (Jason) Hu
Mayor Stephen K. Benjamin

Location of Agreement

Taichung City

Nature of Tie

Sister City

Emblem

City

Columbus, Georgia, U.S.A.

Brief

The City of Columbus is located in the central west of Georgia State, USA. It is 160 km south of the capital of Atlanta, with an area of 560 square kilometers and a population of 860,000 people. There are around two million people living in the periphery, making Columbus the 14th most populous city in the USA. It is also the third biggest capital city after Phoenix, Arizona and Austin, Texas, and the second largest city in Midwest USA after Chicago.

The City of Columbus is very orderly, with comprehensive city planning, educational and medical facilities, as well as convenient air and land travel. In the city there are the State University of Columbus, technical colleges, Georgia Military Institute and other higher education institutes as well as many museums, theatres and other cultural facilities, fully reflecting the city's cultural standard.

The city of Columbus elects a mayor and ten councilmen, with the mayor being the main office bearer who chairs council meetings. The city council elections are held once every two years. With the help of the municipal manager, the council directs and oversees the various departments of city administration. The importance of the economy in Columbus is only second to Atlanta. NetJets Inc., Chemical Abstracts Service (CAS), Battelle Memorial Institute, German company Bayer AG, and other internationally renowned companies have come to set up operations here. Aflac, a medical and life insurance company that is one of the top 500 companies in the USA has its headquarter in Columbus city. Synovus and TSYS, two finance companies that operate local banks in southeast USA also have company headquarters here. Fort Benning, located at the outer south of Columbus city is the largest army base in the US which employs 42,000 people, 120,000 including family members, making it the largest employer in the City of Columbus. The FORT consists of an infantry, as well as an armored soldier school and training center

Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in Atlanta has been promoting cultural exchanges with the city of Columbus several times, including a one-month show “Taiwan's Three Generations Art Exhibition”, organized by Council for Aultural Affairs of Executive Yuan (CAA), at a state university in August 2005. CAA also arranged tour performances for “Formosa Aboriginal Singing and Dance Troupe”(FASDT) in Oct. 2005 and one of the stops was at Columbus. Under the jurisdiction of TECO in Atlanta, Columbus was the only city offered free costs in rental stage, transportation, accommodation, and food for FASDT during their stay in recent years. It is a very friendly city to Taiwan.

Official Website

https://www.columbusga.gov/

Alliance Date

Sept. 11, 2007

Hosts

Mayor Chih-Chiang (Jason) Hu
Mayor Jim Wetherington

Location of Agreement

Columbus City

Nature of Tie

Sister City

Emblem

City

Makati, Republic of the Philippines

Brief

The City of Makati, located in Greater Manila, the Philippines, sits on an area of 27.36 square kilometers and is home to 580,000 people. Makati has a highly international environment and developmental potential in the areas of education, business and finance and technology industries. It is the finance and business center of the Philippines, as well as one of the fastest growing cities in the country. The main airport of the Philippines is located here.

The central business district (CBD) of the city boasts highly influential organizations of Philippine's economic development such as the Makati Business Club, the Philippine Stock Exchange, and Bank of Philippine Islands; while other internationally renowned companies such as IBM, Citibank, Ayala, JG Summit Holding Company, etc have headquarters or offices in the city. The tallest building in the Philippines, the PBCom building (265 meters high), is situated on Ayala Avenue. This avenue, traversing the central business district, is known as the "Wall Street of the Philippines".

Furthermore, Makati is also home to prestigious educational institutions including the renowned Asia Institute of Management, Assumption College, Colegio de San Agustin College, Pamantasan ng Makati, and Ateneo Research Institute, which is affiliated with Ateneo de Manila University making the city the hub of higher education in the country. Of note, the Ateno Research Institute is home to one of the most prestigious law schools in the Philippines.

On 27 July 2004, Makati Mayor Jejomar Cabauatan Binay, Sr. led a delegation to Taichung to form sister city ties, and since then exchanges between the two cities have been frequent, and our relationship friendly.

Official Website

https://www.makati.gov.ph

Alliance Date

Jul. 27, 2004

Hosts

Mayor Pai-Jung Lin

Mayor Jejomar Cabauatan Binay Sr.

Location of Agreement

Taichung City

Nature of Tie

Sister City

Emblem

City

San Pedro Sula, Cortés, Republic of Honduras

Brief

The City of San Pedro Sula is located on the northwestern corner of Honduras. It is around 100 km south of Puerto Cortes on the Caribbean Sea. It spans an area of 838 square kilometers with a population of 1,100,000 people, only second to the capital city of Honduras - Tegucigalpa. The capital city of Cortes is located in San Pedro Sula. In terms of political influence, one third of Honduras parliament cabinets and senators come from San Pedro Sula, which is proof to the weight San Pedro Sula politicians have in the government. The city is a finance and industrial center, with a thriving tourism sector.

San Pedro Sula was founded on 27 June 1536. The international airport in San Pedro Sula, Ramón Villeda Morales (also called La Mesa) is the trendiest airport in Honduras. The airport has direct flights to capital cities in the area as well as to Houston, Miami and New York. The main livestock, aquaculture and agricultural products are mainly for export, include coffee, bananas, cane sugar, tobacco, palm oil, cocoa, pineapple, timber, cardamom, fish, tilapia, lobsters (except sea prawns), lead and zinc ore, and beef, etc. San Pedro Sula is in control of 65% of the production and 53% of National revenue. Of the 28 processing and export zones in Honduras, 20 are located here. There are 253 garment factories in the country, creating more than 120,000 jobs, and of those, 180 factories are located in 20 industrial zones of the city.

San Pedro Sula has a tropical climate with an average temperature of 26 ^oC. Thanks to banana plantation, the influx of international companies, the construction of railways and other factors, San Pedro Sula's economy has taken flight and its population has soared. Meanwhile, the diligence of the residents and the outstanding leadership of entrepreneurs as well as the hard work of business, medical, and academia professionals have made San Pedro Sula what it is today.

In San Pedro Sula, there are about 20 Taiwanese businessmen doing business in clothing, dyeing materials, plastic bags, video game equipment, and construction, etc. Although there are only a few of them, they are strongly supportive of the government. They often cooperated with the Consulate-General of the Republic of China（Taiwan）by donating supplies after major natural disasters, which has earned them a positive image of giving back to society.

Official Website

Alliance Date

Oct. 28, 2003

Hosts

Mayor Pai-Jung Lin

Mayor Oscar Kilgore

Location of Agreement

Taichung City

Nature of Tie

Sister City

Emblem

City

Kwajalein Atoll, Republic of the Marshall Islands

Brief

The City of Kwajalein Atoll covers an area of 10.18 square kilometers and has a population of around 10,000 people. It is home to the largest lagoon in the world, spanning 2,173 square kilometers. In 1950, the US Bucholz Army Airfield relocated to Kwajalein Atoll, and made the city a missiles test site, which led to many residents relocating to Ebeye, an island also under Kwajalein Atoll's administration.

Ebeye Island has a highly concentrated population, and is highly urbanized. It is also the second largest city of the Marshall Islands next to Majuro. The main income of local residents are from being employed by the US army base or leasing land to the US army. Residents have a relatively high income of around USD15,000 per household per year. Besides the economic activities related to the army base, there are two large shops, one hotel (around 20 to 25 rooms), and one private company, the National Telecommunication Authority (NTA), which has a branch on Ebeye island. However, currently there are no major business activities on the island.

Social Website

Alliance Date

May 16, 2002

Hosts

Mayor Chih-Chiang (Jason) Hu, Speaker Hong-Nian Chang

Mayor Wilmer Bolkeim

Location of Agreement

Taichung City

Nature of Tie

Sister City

Emblem

City

Tacoma, Washington, U.S.A.

Brief

The City of Tacoma sits on the west of Washington State. It encompasses an area of 129.5 square kilometers and a population of 190,000 people. It is the third largest city in Washington State with convenient land and sea transportation. The highways, interstate rail, international airport and Tacoma port make it an important geographical location on the doorstep of USA's northwestern pacific region.

The government of the city of Tacoma operates under a council-manager system. The city council is a legislative institution. Residents vote for the mayor and 8 councilmen, who serve for a maximum of two 4-year terms. The City Manager is appointed by and reports to the city council, while the mayor is only a figure head who represents the city or is just a member of the city council.

Early on, Tacoma's main industries were rail, shipbuilding, copper and aluminum refining, as well as timber processing. However, over recent years, high technology, finance, retail sales, service and construction have become main economic contributors. The city boasts various museums including the Washington State History Museum, Museum of Glass, Tacoma Art Museum, Tacoma Dome, and LeMay-America's Car Museum. Furthermore, the zoo, parks as well as various exercise and recreational facilities make a convenient lifestyle possible.

Being the fifth largest container port, Tacoma port is an important high volume natural port located on the west coast of USA. Taiwan is the fourth largest trade partner of this port with Evergreen Marine and Yang Ming Marine Transport being major clients. The port region is also a center for industrial manufacturing, shipbuilding, and trade. It is an important hub for Tacoma's economic development. The higher education institutions in urban Tacoma include a total of three universities and five technical colleges.

Official Website

http://www.cityoftacoma.org/

Alliance Date

July 19, 2000

Hosts

Mayor Wen-Ying Chang

Mayor Brian Ebersole

Location of Agreement

Tacoma City

Nature of Tie

Sister City

Emblem

City

Nassau County, New York, U.S.A.

Brief

With a population of 1,360,000, Nassau County spans an area of 1,173 square kilometers, making it the second largest county in New York State. Nassau County is part of New York's suburbia, located west of Long Island. Thanks to the sea breeze, temperatures in Nassau County are higher than inland. This business hub encompasses three towns, two cities, 64 villages and 56 school districts.

The Nassau County administrative center is located in the Village of Mineola with the head being the County Executive. Main sources of income include health management, social services, real estate, as well as professional and technology industries.

Official Website

Alliance Date

Sept. 4, 1997

Hosts

County Magistrate Liou-Yi Liao

County Executive Thomas Gulotta

Location of Agreement

Nassau County

Nature of Tie

Sister City

Emblem

City

Auckland, New Zealand

Brief

The City of Auckland has a population of 1.5 million, which accounts for one third of New Zealand's total population. It spans an area of almost 5,000 square kilometers, with the city taking up one third (1,091.57 square kilometers) of the total area. The climate here is temperate with an average of 24 ^oC in summer and 16 ^o C in winter, making it a great place for living and for outdoor activities all year round. According to the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU), Auckland ranks the eighth on the top ten of the world's most livable cities.

There are more than 150 ethnicities living in Auckland, making it the most multicultural city in New Zealand. In the past ten years, the highest population growth belong to those of Asian origin, with residents coming mainly from China, India and Korea. Migrants in Auckland bring their respective cultural traditions, customs, art and music, further adding to Auckland's multicultural character. Migrant's skills, enterprise management and international connections have made great contributions towards New Zealand's economy.

More than 600 international companies have established themselves in Auckland. In addition, around 61% of New Zealand's imports and 32% of exports go through Auckland International Airport and the Port of Auckland.

Seven local governments including North Shore City were merged to become the city of Auckland on 1 November 2010. Taichung City also merged with surrounding county in December of the same year. The extension of official sister city relations was signed in Taichung City on 14 October 2012.

Official Website

https://www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/Pages/default.aspx

Alliance Date

Dec. 17, 1996

Hosts

Mayor Chih-Chiang (Jason) Hu
Mayor Len Brown

Location of Agreement

Taichung City

Nature of Tie

Sister City

Emblem

City

Montgomery County, Ohio, U.S.A.

Brief

Ohio state is located in the Midwest USA. It is the American center for car parts, heavy machinery and aviation. Montgomery County is located in the southwest of Ohio, with an area of 1,203 square kilometers. According to 2015 population census, the county is home to 540,000 people, making it the fifth largest county in the state. The sixth largest city in Ohio, City of Dayton, is also under the jurisdiction of Montgomery County.

The county was founded on May 1, 1803. Three elected members sit on the Board of Commissioners. The public universities in Montgomery include the United States Air Force Academy, Wright State University, and Sinclair Community College. The two private schools here are Dayton University and Kettering College of Medical Arts. The County is known for its Midwestern American style. There are a museum, shopping center, parks, farms and art galleries.

Official Website

www.mcohio.org/

Alliance Date

Oct. 15, 1990

Hosts

County Magistrate Liou-Yi Liao

County Executive MacIlwaine

Location of Agreement

Taichung County

Nature of Tie

Sister City

Emblem

City

Mexicali, Baja California, United Mexican States

Brief

Mexicali is the capital city of Baja California, which is the northernmost state in Mexico. Mexicali sits over an area of 113.7 square kilometers and it is home to a population of around 990,000. The climate in Mexicali is dry with minimal rainfall and an average temperature of around 80 ^oF.

After an American large international company, Rockwell Collins, Inc. established operation in Mexicali in 1966, the city gradually developed into the nation's center for aerospace processing and export industries. International aerospace companies such as Honeywell, GKN Aerospace, Gulfstream, UTC Aerospace Systems, and Goodrich Corporation all have operations in Mexicali.

Other well-known companies with operations in Mexicali include SunPower, LG Electronics, National Oilwell Varco, Mitsubishi, Autolite, Nestlé, Coca-Cola, Robert Bosch and Kellogg's. They are proof to the city's rapid economic development and potential for internationalization.

Official Website

Alliance Date

Sept. 21, 1989

Hosts

County Magistrate Geng-Jin Chen

Mayor Ahdrete

Location of Agreement

Mexicali City

Nature of Tie

Sister City

Emblem

City

Manchester, New Hampshire, U.S.A.

Brief

The city of Manchester sits over 90.4 square kilometers, and is home to around 110,000 people (2016 census). It is the largest city of the New Hampshire and the northern New England Region. Located in the south of New Hampshire State where it meets the border of Massachusetts, Manchester is 93 km away from Boston. The climate here is humid continental, with chilly temperatures and much snow in the winter and humid heat in the summer. Nevertheless, the weather in fall is most enjoyable.

Manchester originated from a small farming village on the riverbanks of Merrimack. Formerly known as the town of Derryfield, it was renamed in 1810 to Manchester. The mayor and 14 city councilors form a committee that takes responsibility over city governance, including legislation. Business thrives in Manchester. In 2009 it was rated as the second most tax friendly city in USA, and the thirteenth most livable and most favorable city for entrepreneurship. The headquarter of the two-wheel smart personal transportation company Segway is also located in Manchester.

Official Website

https://www.manchesternh.gov/

Alliance Date

May 8, 1989

Hosts

Mayor Zi-Yuan Chang

Mayor Emile Beaulieu

Location of Agreement

Taichung City

Nature of Tie

Sister City

Emblem

City

Austin, Texas, U.S.A.

Brief

The City of Austin is situated in the heart of Texas. It is the state capital with an area of around 816 square kilometers and around 950,000 in population. If including cities like Round Rock and San Marcos, the greater Austin area is home to around 2 million people (2017 statistics). According to US News & World Report, Austin won "the Most Livable City" in USA for 2017.

The city adopts the city manager system. The mayor and city councilors are all elected. The authority and way of election for the mayor is equivalent to those of the city councilors. There are a total of six city councilors, but the actual governance of the city is the responsibility of the city manager. The mayor only holds a symbolic head status that oversees the city, but appoints the city manager together with city councilors.

Austin is the center for Texan politics, culture and education. Many US Fortune 500 international companies have headquarters or branches in the city, including Amazon, Apple Inc., Cisco, eBay, General Motors, Google, IBM, Intel, Oracle Corporation, Paypal, Texas Instruments, 3M, Whole Foods Market and Dell's, which won the city the nickname  "Silicon Hills".

The University of Texas is located in the city of Austin. According to US News & World Report, this campus was number 30 in 2017's Best Universities in the World. Meanwhile, the southern music festival SXSW held in March every year is one of the most prestigious musical events in the world, hence making Austin "the Music City". Taiwanese bands have participated in the festival over recent years.

Official Website

http://www.austintexas.gov/

Alliance Date

Sept. 22, 1986

Hosts

Mayor Zi-Yuan Chang

Mayor Frank C. Cooksey

Location of Agreement

Taichung City

Nature of Tie

Sister City

Emblem

City

Sumter County, South Carolina, U.S.A.

Brief

    Sumter County covers an area of 605 square kilometers and is home to a population of around 110,000 people. The county enjoys four distinct seasons, with a climate less humid than in Taiwan. The main income is from agricultural produce which includes cotton, maze, soy, peanuts, peaches, tobacco and wheat, etc.

Two hundred and twenty years since its establishment in 1789, Sumter County has seen multiple name changes and rezoning efforts. The name Sumter is in commemoration of the American independence war general and senator Mr. Thomas Sumter (1734-1832).

Sumter County is made up of seven county commissioners elected by the people under the single-member district. Sumter County is the main hub of agriculture and industry in South Carolina State. It is also the site of the American air force base, Shaw AFB, and the largest F-16 air base in the USA.

There are 22 public schools in the county, providing elementary, junior and senior high school education. Major universities in the area include University of South Carolina-Sumter, Troy University, St. Leo University, Morris College and Central Carolina Technical College, etc. The county enjoys four distinct seasons, with a climate less humid than in Taiwan. The main income is from agricultural produce which includes cotton, maze, soy, peanuts, peaches, tobacco and wheat, etc.

Official Website

www.sumtercountysc.org

Alliance Date

June 5, 1986

Hosts

County Magistrate Geng-Jin Chen

Chairman Jamps A Campliell

Location of Agreement

Taichung County

Nature of Tie

Sister City

Emblem

City

Reno, Nevada, U.S.A.

Brief

The City of Reno is known as the "the Biggest Little City in the World" with a population of over 230,000 people (as of September 2017), and an area of 178.7 square kilometers.

Reno has enjoyed population and economic growth over the past years.  It has a temperate climate and serves as the main route to Sierra Nevada. Diverse outdoor activities include skiing, hiking and water sports. The parks and leisure facilities not only attract tourists, but also bring residents to relocate here. Reno hosts various events throughout spring, summer and fall, and its recreational facilities are well-talked about.

Overall, the education system is comprehensive. Nevada University which is located in Reno city, provides students with first class education. Reno enjoys convenient transportation, and high employment rates. The city also spares no efforts in environmental conservation.

Official Website

https://www.reno.gov/

Alliance Date

Oct. 8, 1985

Hosts

Mayor Pai-Jung Lin

Mayor Pete Sferrazza

Location of Agreement

Taichung City

Nature of Tie

Sister City

Emblem

City

Msunduzi Local Municipality, Kwazulu-Natal Province, Republic of South Africa 

Brief

Msunduzi is named after the Msunduzi River that flows through the city, which sits over an area of 634 square kilometers and is home to a population of 610,000 people. (2011 census)

The city council of Msunduzi takes the form of the British system with the mayor being appointed by the council instead of being elected by the people. The mayor, who serves a term of three years, is the highest representative of public opinion. The city council has 73 councilors (36 non-partition members, and 37 members by district), and an executive commissioner responsible for administrative and financial supervision. There are six committees in charge of promoting city governance that comprises economic development, community service, human resources, finance, public policy planning and infrastructure.

The oldest paper in South Africa- "Witness" that is headquartered in Msunduzi has been in operation since 1846. Within the city, there are many Victorian style architecture left from the British colonial period. The town hall is such a building constructed with red bricks, which was classified as one of South Africa's national heritages in 1969. There are 39 other heritages in the city, aptly making Msunduzi one of South Africa's cities of historical culture.

Official Website

http://www.msunduzi.gov.za/site/home

Alliance Date

Dec. 9,1983

Hosts

Mayor Pai-Jung Lin

Mayor Pamela A. Reid

Location of Agreement

Pietermaritzburg City (incorporated into Msunduzi in 2001)

Nature of Tie

Sister City

Emblem

City

San Diego, California, U.S.A.

Brief

The City of San Diego has an area of 886.8 square kilometers, and a population of around 1.41 million people. It is the eighth largest city in the USA and the second largest city in California next to Los Angeles. Known as "America's Finest City", San Diego is one of the most multicultural cities in the USA, with residents from all over the world speaking more than 100 languages. The demography of San Diego is rather young, with people under 20 years of age taking up more than one quarter of the population, and those 65 years or older accounting for only 11%.

San Diego has the world's largest military garrison. The US military has several bases in San Diego, with the major ones belonging to the US navy, US Marine Corps, and US Coast Guard.

San Diego boasts a warm temperate climate suitable for various outdoor activities. There are also plenty of indoor recreational facilities such as museums, art galleries, concert halls, and cinemas. San Diego has a unique zoo which is famous around the world. With beautiful scenery abound, there are enchanting bays, traditional architecture, a convenient transportation network and also many prestigious universities as well as fine recreational facilities in this city.

The San Diego city council is active in combating crime and has earned the title of being one of America's safest large cities. There are many regional and local shopping centers and business strips in San Diego, making it a "shopper's paradise".

Official Website

https://www.sandiego.gov/

Alliance Date

Nov. 19, 1983

Hosts

Mayor Pai-Jung Lin

Mayor Roger Hedgecock

Location of Agreement

Taichung City

Nature of Tie

Sister City

Emblem

City

Contra Costa County, California, U.S.A.

Brief

Contra Costa County is located on the east side of the San Francisco Bay Area. Belonging to the East Bay Area, it covers an area of 732.6 square kilometers and is home to a population of around 1.14 million people (2016 census), making it the ninth largest county in California.

There are 19 cities in Contra Costa County. It is blessed with numerous agricultural produce thanks to its temperate climate. There is one sea port in Contra Costa County that serves as a grains distribution center for north California, with port throughput of around 20,000 metric tons. Brentwood city of Contra Costa County is an important orchard for cherries, pears and other fruits. Every year, the city attracts numerous people to pick fruits there.

The economy in the county relies on traditional industries including oil refinery, telecommunication, steel, electronic appliances and chemical factories etc. Tax revenue comes mainly from petroleum refining. The well-known American oil company Chevron has branches throughout the county, as well as its R&D and technology centers established in Richmond city. In 1915, another oil company, Shell, set up an operation branch and refinery at Martinez which is the seat of the county office. The refinery is one of the three largest on the West Coast of the USA.

The parliament of Contra Costa County adopts the senate-executive system. The city council is a legislative institution that also appoints administrative officials. The administrator and staff make up the administration, and the council comprises five councilors.

There are many cultural attractions within the county, such as the Briones Regional Park, the John Muir National Historic Site and the the Eugene O'Neill National Historic Site, which is the former residence of the US winner of the Nobel Prize in Literature Eugene O'Neill.

Official Website

http://www.co.contra-costa.ca.us/

Alliance Date

March 31, 1983

Hosts

County Magistrate Geng-Jin Chen

Chair of the Board Robert I. Schroder

Location of Agreement

Taichung County

Nature of Tie

Sister City

Emblem

City

Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada

Brief

The City of Winnipeg is situated 110 km north of the Canada-USA border. It encompasses an area of 465.16 square kilometers and is home to around 740,000 people. It is an intermediate pathway between the Atlantic Ocean and the Pacific Ocean as well as the center point of the traversing railway, making transportation very convenient. Winnipeg is hence one of the most important cities in Canada.

Winnipeg is the provincial capital of Manitoba. Made up of 15 city councilors, the city council acts as a supervisory institution, which holds mayoral and councilor elections every four years. The city council is the legislative body for the city. It sets policies while the standing committee handles the administration for each civil affairs department, providing high level services for the operation of the council.

Thanks to its advantageous location in the center of North America, Winnipeg is now the hub for industries, transportation and product distribution in central Canada. Being the seventh largest city in the country, it isorld-renowned for its china, fur, and wool products. The Royal Winnipeg Ballet, adored by the Royal Family, is one the four major ballet companies in the world. The Centennial Center in Manitoba is home to four architectural buildings comprising a concert hall, planetarium, museum and research center. Hence Winnipeg can be aptly regarded as the cultural city in Manitoba.

Official Website

http://www.winnipeg.ca/interhom/

Alliance Date

April 2, 1982

Hosts

Mayor Pai-Jung Lin

Mayor William Norrie

Location of Agreement

Taichung City

Nature of Tie

Sister City

Emblem

City

Cheyenne, Wyoming, U.S.A.

Brief

Lying in the southern corner of the state, in Laramie County , Cheyenne is only 16.1 kilometers from the border of Colorado and Wyoming State. Its total population is about 50,000 and total land area is 54.39 square kilometers. Also known as “the Magic City of the Plains”, Cheyenne is named after an American Indian tribe. It is the largest city in Wyoming, as well as the state's economic, political and cultural center.

Official Website

https://www.cheyennecity.org/

Alliance Date

Oct. 8, 1981

Hosts

Mayor Wen-Po Tzeng

Mayor Don Erickson

Location of Agreement

Taichung City

Nature of Tie

Sister City

Emblem

City

Baton Rouge, Louisiana, U.S.A.

Brief

The City of Baton Rouge is situated at the heart of Louisiana State, with an area of 204.89 square kilometers and a population of about 230,000. It is the capital as well as the cultural, political, and economic hub of Louisiana. Lying immediately next to the Mississippi River, Baton Rouge is the second largest city in the state and also the seat of the Louisiana State Legislature.

Baton Rouge adopts the Mayor-President system. The Mayor-President is the head of the city government. There is one deputy mayor and one acting deputy mayor, who acts as mayor pro tempore as appropriate. They are chosen from within the 12 councilors of the highest seniority who are members of the same political party as the Mayor President.

Baton Rouge is home to America's most inland river port, which primarily ships petrochemical materials and agricultural products. Taiwan’s Formosa Plastics Group also has its facilities here. The city is very close to New Orleans, a popular tourism city in southern United States. There are abundant historical architecture in Baton Rouge. The New Louisiana State Capitol completed in 1932 is the tallest capital building in the U.S. One can look over the entire city of Baton Rough and the Mississippi River from the observatory on the 27 ^th floor. The Louisiana Art and Science Museum is also located in Baton Rouge. Tourism is one of the city's main sources of revenue. The State of Louisiana was once a French colony. Besides the French influence on its architecture, the Cajun cuisine specific to Louisiana combines traditional French food with southern American spices, holding a special place in American fare.

Ethnic Chinese in Baton Rouge mainly come from Taiwan, Hong Kong and China. The Chinese community includes the oldest “Baton Rouge Chinese Association” consisting mainly of Taiwanese and Hong Kongers, as well as the “Chinese Friendship Association of Baton Rouge” with most members from China. Most ethnic Chinese work in the state government, universities, and the local petrochemical sector or run local restaurants or hotels. 

Official Website

Alliance Date

April 18, 1980

Hosts

Mayor Wen-Po Tzeng

Speaker George Dabbs

Location of Agreement

Taichung City

Nature of Tie

Sister City

Emblem

City

Tucson, Arizona, U.S.A.

Brief

Tucson is located in the southwest of the United States. It is the second largest city in Arizona, with an area of 588.65 square kilometers and a population of around 530,000 (2016 Census). Tucson is located 177.1 km southeast of Phoenix and 96.6 km north of the United States-Mexico border . The city is situated in the valley of a desert, with an elevation of 731.52 meters above sea level. Looking from above, it resembles a shining diamond in the wilderness.

The University of Arizona, located in Tucson, is the most famous university in the Southwest. The pleasant climate here makes outdoor activities popular throughout the year. Thanks to the promotion of various associations established by sport lovers, citizens have plenty of opportunities to improve their fitness, while the city has even produced quite a few national athletes. Since Taichung City began the Taichung Jazz Festival in 2003, people from Tucson have been participating enthusiastically every year.  

Official Website

https://www.tucsonaz.gov/

Alliance Date

Aug. 31. 1979

Hosts

Mayor Wen-Po Tzeng

Councilor R. M. Meith

Location of Agreement

Taichung City

Nature of Tie

Sister City

Emblem

City

Santa Cruz de la Sierra, Plurinational State of Bolivia

Brief

Located in the Santa Cruz department in eastern Bolivia , Santa Cruz de la Sierra is 416 meters above sea level, with an area of 370.621 km ² and a population of about 1.64 million. Bolivia has thriving commerce, industry, agriculture and animal husbandry. Boasting a favorable geographic location, Santa Cruz is the hub of air transportation and second largest city of the nation.

Santa Cruz de la Sierra has roads and highways, as well as shopping malls. The main sectors that drive the economy are oil, forestry, agribusiness, and construction. Santa Cruz supplies more than 80% of Bolivia's national agricultural production, and has also contributed over 35% of GDP in recent years. Being home to Bolivia’s largest international airport makes Santa Cruz an ideal place for trade fairs, international events and investment .

Official Website

http://www.gmsantacruz.gob.bo/

Alliance Date

Nov. 21, 1978

Hosts

Mayor Wen-po Tzeng

Mayor Anci

Location of Agreement

Taichung City

Nature of Tie

Sister City

Emblem

City

Chungju, North Chungcheong Province, Republic of Korea

Brief

The City of Chungju is located at the heart of the Korean Peninsula, where the Hangang River and its southern tributaries flowing through it. Its total area is 983.9 square kilometers and total population is about 210,000. Located 147 km south of Seoul, Chungju was a coveted target of Baekje, Silla, and Goguryeo in the Three Kingdoms era, which resulted in a mixeure of the three cultures today.

Chungju has 1 eup, 12 myeon, 12 dong under its jurisdiction. The city council consists of 19 members and three standing committees. There are two universities, two industrial zones and a multi-purpose dam in Chungju. Famous tourist attractions include Woraksan National Park, Maitreyori Temple, Tangeumdae Terrace, Eight Views of Danyang, and Suanbo Hot Spring. Well-known local agricultural products include Chngju apples, rice, peaches, sweet chestnuts, and Hangang pickle etc.

Established on Oct. 2, 2002, the World Martial Arts Union (WoMAU) now has 46 member states and 39 groups. It aims to promote friendly exchanges among the martial arts communities, succeed and develop traditional martial arts of the world as well as consolidate Chungju’s status as “the Hometown of Global Martial Arts”. The city is not only a center for agricultural economy, culture and technologies, but also a transportation hub that links together major and medium-sized cities across the R.O.K. Hence, it is a rare city has enjoyed well-balanced development in industry, academia, culture and tourism, etc.

Official Website

https://www.chungju.go.kr/english/index.do

Alliance Date

Nov. 27, 1969

Hosts

Mayor Cheng-Qiu Lin

Mayor Yong Tae Heung

Location of Agreement

Taichung City

Nature of Tie

Sister City

Emblem

City

New Haven, Connecticut, U.S.A.

Brief

The City of New Haven is located on the northern shore of Long Island Sound. It is 120.7 km from the northeast part of New York. With a population of about 130,000 and an area of 49.20 km ², it is the second largest city in Connecticut.

New Haven is governed via the mayor-council system. The elected mayor also serves as the speaker of the council. Members of the council are each elected from single-member electorates. The mayor and officials in the city government serve a term of two years. The mayor appoints top level officials who serve the same term as the mayor.

A group of early Puritan settlers founded New Haven in 1638. With spirits of harmony, solidarity, stability, health and optimism, citizens sought to build a prosperious and beautiful city. New Haven is the home of a world-renowned university-Yale, which established in 1701. With a long history of over 300 years, Yale enjoys leadership position among prestigious global institutes of higher education.

New Haven is one of the most beautiful cities in the U.S. Many elm trees were planted in the parks, producing a canopy of mature foliage that gave New Haven the nickname “the Elm City”. In the center of Downtown New Haven is the New Haven Green, a 16-acre square, surrounded by the tall architecture of Yale University within the downtown district. This scenic spot plays a big role in citizens’ daily lives as it provides peace and quiet in the midst of noisy bustle. 

Official Website

https://www.newhavenct.gov/

Alliance Date

March 29, 1965

Hosts

Mayor Chi-Chung Chang

Mayor Richard C. Lee

Location of Agreement

Taichung City