Current information as of 05/14/26

Global Partnerships of Tacoma

The City of Tacoma maintains connections with 14 Sister Cities worldwide, each offering unique synergies with Tacoma's economic strengths.

About
Sister Cities Council
Contact

The City's international collaborations span educational exchanges, arts festivals, sports partnerships, and cultural initiatives. These relationships require formal approval from the City Council and emphasize long-term engagement.

The inaugural Sister City program launched in 1956 under President Eisenhower, establishing a framework for global municipal cooperation. Today, Tacoma's network continues to expand through structured partnerships and grassroots initiatives.

Local Sister City Committees operate under the Tacoma Sister Cities Council, coordinating activities and facilitating new connections. Individuals interested in participation should contact the Council to explore opportunities.

Contact Information

Bucoda Warren
Chief Policy Analyst to the Mayor

(253) 318-0594

bwarren@[SITEURL]

Tacoma Sister Cities Council

This organization supports both formal Sister City agreements and informal international relationships. Visit their website for detailed maps, activity updates, and volunteer opportunities.

Partnership Classifications

Sister Cities represent official municipal agreements with comprehensive support from both governments. Friendship Cities offer initial collaboration pathways with reduced formal commitments. Provisional Friendship Cities function as emerging partnerships awaiting council ratification.

Current Sister Cities:

1959 – Kitakyushu, Japan
1978 – Gunsan, South Korea
1986 – Aalesund, Norway
1992 – Vladivostok, Russia
1994 – Fuzhou, China; Davao City, Philippines
2000 – Taichung, Taiwan; Cienfuegos, Cuba
2008 – El Jadida, Morocco
2012 – Biot, France
2016 – Boca Del Rio, Mexico; Brovary, Ukraine
2026 – Split, Croatia; Garden Route Municipality, South Africa

Current Friendship Cities:

2005 – Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
2006 – Mianyang, China; Maseru, Lesotho
2026 – Kochi, India

Provisional Friendship Cities:

2016 – Wuhan, China
2026 – Tulua, Columbia; Ningbo, China; Putuo District, Shanghai; Nanshan District, Shenzhen; Mannheim, Germany

Contact Details