Our Mission

We cultivate global relationships with Austin's sister cities that engage our communities in citizen diplomacy while offering educational, cultural, and economic benefits to all and promoting the arts and culture of Austin’s sister cities - one individual, one community at a time.

Our Vision

We envision a peaceful and inclusive world with mutual respect, understanding and cooperation.

Member of Sister Cities International

Affiliations between the United States and other countries began shortly after World War II and soon became popularly known as Sister Cities. The Sister City movement became a national effort when President Dwight D. Eisenhower proposed the People-to-People program at a White House conference in 1956. Today, over 2,000 U.S. cities in all 50 states are linked with over 1,800 foreign cities in 123 different countries. Since its founding, the Sister Cities program has broadened its areas of focus from educational and cultural exchanges to also include technical assistance, trade, and economic development.

What are international sister cities?

A sister cities relationship is a broad-based, long-term partnership between two communities in two countries. A relationship is officially recognized after the highest elected or appointed officials from both communities sign off on an agreement to become sister cities.

When did sister cities begin?

The international sister cities program dates back to 1956 and the Eisenhower Administration. Recognizing the damage done to diplomacy during World War II, Eisenhower established the program as a civilian vehicle for repairing and promoting international relations. Some of the early partnerships with cities in Germany and Japan represented clear attempts to erase old tensions.

Are Sister Cities relevant today?

Diplomacy doesn't have to be done just by the State Department. Sister Cities practices “citizen diplomacy” between individual communities and their people. Through collaborative programs and exchanges, the citizens of sister cities learn to relate with mutual respect, understanding, and cooperation - leading to a more peaceful world.

The Economic Impact of International Businesses On Austin’s Regional Economy - A Report conducted by Austin Sister Cities International

In 2018 – 2019 Austin has become the prime destination for many international businesses and foreign investors they continue to move to the area to benefit from Austin’s skilled labor force and access to high tech scene. The innovation oriented economy of the region adds to the attractions for the international businesses. The present report update the information on international activities after conducting a survey of international businesses in the city and collecting information and data on the status of ongoing activities. It must be noted that Austin is the destination for 11% of foreign direct investment in the state of Texas and has an export volume of $10.7 billion. Small to Medium Enterprises (SMEs) account for 88% of Austin goods exporters.

Read Report

How is a Sister City partnership created?

From the City of Austin: Sister City designation is a citizen-driven process and is built upon existing relationships between individuals or institutions in Austin and the sister city. The Sister Cities/International Program Coordinator will meet with interested parties to discuss the different options for international partnerships. In March 2012, the Austin Sister Cities International committee and the International Economic Development Program developed a recommended path for creating relationships between Austin and international cities. Click here to learn more. Sister Cities partnerships must be approved by the City Council and the Sister Cities Agreement will be signed by the mayors of both cities.

CITY OF AUSTIN SISTER CITIES PROGRAM

International understandinG, cooperation, and respect

Austin Sister Cities International aims to promote international understanding in our fast-paced, globalized world. Together with representatives from our sister cities, we are facilitating a wide range of opportunities to participate in international educational, community, cultural and business exchanges.

INbound + Outbound Delegations

Austin Sister Cities International organizes, hosts and welcomes multiple international delegations every year. As a volunteer-driven, non-profit organization we are committed to including local artists, business leaders, city administration and community members in all of our trips abroad. The topics of focus on the delegation trips vary, depending on each delegation's agenda and committee aims. However, all ASCI delegations represent an international and diverse Austin, seeking to promote international understanding, cooperation and respect.

Educational exchange

Austin Sister Cities International has facilitated educational exchanges for decades. Many Austin schools, including elementary, high school, colleges and universities regularly participate in student exchange with our sister cities. Email Canan, ckaba@austinsistercities.com, to learn more.

Economic Development

Austin Sister Cities actively contributes to our city's thriving economy, (1) by promoting and organizing large groups of international citizens to visit Austin for the purpose of tourism, business development, educational instruction, and cultural exchange and (2) by facilitating opportunities for Austin businesses to expand internationally, through the established networks in our Sister Cities and the surrounding communities.

Austin International Community

Austin Sister Cities International leverages it resources within the Austin international community to strengthen Austin as a premier international travel destination and global city. Our core concern involves reducing stereotypes and prejudice, while contributing to a tolerant and welcoming environment. Our events are inclusive and open to the public. The aim is to bring the communities of our sister cities closer to Austin and vice versa, giving Austin an international stage on which it can truly shine.

Our Sponsors and Supporters