Ankawa, Sterling Heights to forge historic sisterhood
Mayor Nuri enthusiastically conveyed the potential for mutual learning and discovery. "It's a great opportunity," he affirmed, emphasizing the importance of understanding both the commonalities and differences between the two regions.
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) - Mayor Rami Nuri of Ankawa District has revealed to Kurdistan24 that Ankawa and Sterling Heights, Michigan, are on the cusp of signing a landmark sisterhood agreement.
On Thursday, Mayor Nuri announced the Sterling Heights Municipal Council's official endorsement of the sister-city bond with Ankawa.
This partnership, first proposed by the Chaldean Diaspora in the United States in April, gained momentum through collaborative efforts and secured approvals from both the Kurdistan Regional Government's Foreign Relations Office and Erbil province.
Read More: Ankawa district, Erbil initiates sisterhood process with Sterling Heights, Michigan
Mayor Nuri further explained the extensive preparatory efforts undertaken, including weekly virtual meetings with the Kurdistan Regional Government Representation in Washington and the Sterling Heights city administration.
These discussions served to streamline the process and foster a mutual understanding.
The far-reaching agreement encompasses provisions for government employees from Ankawa to receive training in modern administrative practices in the United States.
It also envisions a program for young people to experience American culture and lifestyle firsthand, cultivating their leadership and teamwork capabilities.
Beyond this, the agreement lays the groundwork for Ankawa and Sterling Heights to deepen their cultural ties through reciprocal visits and shared events.
Mayor Nuri enthusiastically conveyed the potential for mutual learning and discovery. "It's a great opportunity," he affirmed, emphasizing the importance of understanding both the commonalities and differences between the two regions.
Sterling Heights Mayor Michael C. Taylor echoed this sentiment, stressing the intention to extend active support and promotion to Ankawa. "It is important that this sister-city relationship is not like the ones before, but so that both sides can benefit from," he emphasized.
