The Sister Cities program links Philadelphia to the world by creating special relationships with ten  Sister and Partnership cities.  The program focuses on promoting economic ties while strengthening cultural understanding. 

At the heart of all Sister City program is an agreement signed by the mayors of each city confirming their commitment, and their successors,  to the program.  Each Sister City agrees to send and receive delegations of political and business leaders, arts and cultural representatives, educators, technical experts and students.  By building friendships between the residents and governments of Philadelphia and our Sister Cities, we:

 * promote a positive image of Philadelphia and the U.S.
 * educate our citizens about the world and its diversity
 * promote cross-cultural understanding
 * strengthen our economies through business alliances 
 * and promote democracy and nation-building through government-to-government exchanges

The City of Philadelphia's Sister Cities Program is a member of Sister Cities International. Philadelphia's program is funded by the Philadelphia Department of Commerce and administered by the International Visitors Council of Philadelphia, which works with committees and partners to execute official exchanges. 

Each sister city is supported by a committee of volunteers who are committed to the goals and objectives of the program.  To become a member of the Sister City Association, contact Nancy Gilboy at 215.683.0997. 

The program is administered by Nancy Gilboy, President of the International Visitors Council and Jennifer McGinn, Special Projects Department Manager.  Please call us at 215.683.0993.
Check here for photos of some Sister City activities, from inbound delegations to pen pal letters from Russia.