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Sunderland and Essen mark Diamond Jubilee

Sunderland is celebrating the success of a 60-year partnership with its German twin town.

The city has welcomed guests from the town of Essen, the 2010 European Capital of Culture, to mark the diamond jubilee of the twinning of the two towns back in 1949.

The German party, which is led by the Mayor of Essen, Dr Wolfgang Reiniger, is in the city for a three-day visit.

One of the highlights is a special exhibition taking place at the City Library and Arts Centre. It commemorates the anniversary with information on both cities as they have developed over the years.

Councillor Paul Watson, leader of Sunderland City Council, said: “This is a friendship that stretches back many years and has brought many benefits to the people of both cities. Historically, there are many similarities between Sunderland and Essen and, while big changes have taken place since 1949, there is still a lot that we share in common so the relationship is still very much alive today.

“It’s a great achievement to celebrate our diamond jubilee and is testament to the strength of the relationship. We’re looking forward to the celebrations and the opportunity to develop further areas of shared activity during the visit and delighted to be welcoming our friends from Essen once again.”

During the visit, the delegation will share experience in economic development exploring areas for co-operation with the City Council and Sunderland Software City representatives and will visit the Evolve centre, at Rainton Bridge.

Representatives from both cities will also be looking to the future. Discussions will take place on plans for Sunderland to be involved in Essen’s celebrations during its time as European Capital of Culture on behalf of the Ruhr Valley.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .