The Friendship City Agreement with the City of Moka, Japan aims to promote cooperation in the areas of tourism, culture, trade and commerce, as well as education and social welfare.
The in-person and Zoom event was attended by the Consul-General of Japan, the Deputy Head of Mission at the Australian Embassy in Japan, Shire Councillors, State and Federal Members of Parliament, State Government representatives, education leaders and students.
Shire of Harvey President Paul Gillett said the Shire was honoured to create a special link with the City of Moka and its residents.
“Long before today, our schools have created an ongoing bond with culture and language exchanges,” Cr Gillett said.
“Continuing to develop this relationship will provide unmeasurable benefit for our future generations.”
The ceremony included a Welcome to Country by local Elder, Lesley Ugle, a Japanese drumming performance, and speeches from dignitaries. There was a video shown by Australind Senior High School students and a speech from a Moka Junior High School student, and tourism promotional videos from each region.
After the signing, the Shire presented local gifts to the City of Moka, including a Featured Wood handcrafted bowl incorporating Jarrah, Karri and Marri wood; a framed image of the Harvey Region hinterland by local photographer Haydn Jones, and Shire of Harvey t-shirts incorporating artwork from local Noongar artist Ninette Comito.