This year marks the 76th anniversary of the establishment of bilateral relations between China and Russia. Over the decades, numerous cities in these neighboring countries have forged sister-city relationships, promoting economic cooperation and cultural exchanges. Among them are Guangzhou, the capital city of southern China’s Guangdong Province, and Yekaterinburg, the administrative center of Sverdlovsk Oblast in Russia, which became sister cities in 2002.
As regional hubs, both Guangzhou and Yekaterinburg rank among the largest cities in their respective countries, attracting countless visitors each year with their rich and diverse cultures.
Guangzhou: A Gateway of the Maritime Silk Road
Located in southern Guangdong, Guangzhou has a history that stretches back over two millennia. It was once a starting point of the ancient Maritime Silk Road, serving as a vital commercial and cultural exchange center between China and the rest of the world. Today, Guangzhou continues to be a bustling metropolis, recognized as one of China’s top economic powerhouses.
Yekaterinburg: Connecting East and West
Founded in 1723, Yekaterinburg was named in honor of Empress Catherine I, the wife of Russian Emperor Peter the Great. Situated along the border between Europe and Asia, it serves as a crucial transportation hub, bridging the East and the West. Yekaterinburg is now Russia’s third-largest city and a key center for industry, culture, and education.
Strengthening Ties Through Friendship
Since becoming sister cities, Guangzhou and Yekaterinburg have collaborated in various fields, enhancing mutual understanding and benefiting both communities. Their partnership exemplifies the deepening ties between China and Russia, highlighting the importance of local-level cooperation in international relations.
As the two cities continue to build upon their friendship, they pave the way for future generations to engage in meaningful cultural exchanges and economic partnerships, strengthening the bond between their nations.
