Sister City Relationship Between Cairns and Zhanjiang
The Cairns Chinese Friendship garden opened on November 21, 2015, and is a depiction of the Sister City relationship between Cairns and Zhanjiang. Although the two cities are politically and geographically distinct, the Sister City agreement has demonstrated a good way to reach a cooperative agreement and to promote mutual relationship.
In order to strengthen the friendship between the two, the Cairns Chinese Friendship Garden has been constructed. More than just a symbol of Chinese history and culture, the gardens also provide an excellent attraction for anyone visiting Cairns.
About Zhanjiang
Zhanjiang is a city in the southern part of mainland China. There is significant mining and mineral exploration in the province, and it is also one of the main sources of sugarcane in the region. A large portion of the agricultural produce in China also passes through Zhanjiang, which makes it an important city in the country’s economic activities.
As proof that agriculture is a big part of their economy, Zhanjiang is home to more than 20 manufacturing bases for different categories of agricultural produce.
Zhanjiang is also rich in oceanic resources, including petrol oil reserve. Other industries that have made significant contributions to its economic performance include processing of marine and agricultural products, paper making, machineries, electricity, and textiles.
Sister City of Cairns
Zhanjiang and Cairns established a Sister City agreement in 2004, and have enjoyed a mutually beneficial relationship through various different projects. The Sister Cities concept is aimed at achieving cooperative investment in projects within tourism, trade, education, culture, and urban planning, and other industries. The agreement also necessitates having regular contact between the two cities to stay abreast of issues of mutual concern.
In order to celebrate the friendship between the two, the $1.2 million Zhanjiang Friendship garden has been opened. The garden is located at Freshwater Lake in Edge Hill, within the wider Cairns Botanical Gardens complex.
The garden is a combination of modern and traditional elements. It has entry pillars with traditional Chinese patterns and also has a Moon Gate where you can see the words “Friendship Garden”. You can also see carved dogs made from granite. The design has also drawn inspiration from the Sino-Australian friendship Garden in Zhanjiang.
