July 2011 will mark an important occasion for Mississauga residents: the 30th anniversary of our sister city partnership with Kariya, Japan. 
Since July 7, 1981, Mississauga has been proud to call the City of Kariya its sister city. 
The Sister City initiative was introduced in the 1950s as a way to develop communication networks between cities of the world, for the principal purpose of reducing misunderstandings and conflict between nations, particularly in the aftermath of World War II.

The benefits of sister city partnerships go well beyond friendship. They are a way for both cities to enhance their global reputation and trade, to provide learning opportunities for governments and business, and to provide a cultural and educational exchange between both cities. The City now boasts over 80 Japanese companies that contribute to our local economy.
We celebrated our 25th anniversary with more than 65 guests from Japan, including Kariya Mayor Kunio Enami, on Friday July 7, 2006. Several of our honoured delegates and guests have been attending this occasion since 1975.   The special 25th anniversary took place on Friday July 7, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. in the Great Hall at the Civic Centre. 

The 30th anniversary includes a number of activities including a special exhibition at the Bradley Museum entitled Celebrating Friendship: An Exhibit Commemorating the 30th Anniversary of the Twinning of Mississauga and Kariya, Japan that will run through until December 21st, 2011. Ten delegates from Kariya will participate in the opening ceremony and will share their culture through demonstrations. They will participate in Canada Day at Celebration Square, tour Kariya Park, attend various dinners as well as a day trip to Niagara Falls. The Mayor of Kariya and a few members of his council and city staff will visit Kariya in September for the presentation of a commemorative sculpture in Kariya Park.