February 24, 2004
SUBJECT: Ratification of Memorandum on Friendly Exchange Relations Between Anqing City, Anhui Province, P.R. China and the City of Sunnyvale
REPORT IN BRIEF
In early November 2003, Councilmember (and then Mayor) Julia Miller visited Anqing City, Anhui Province, in China. As a result of the visit and dialog with officials from Anqing City, a memorandum of friendly exchange was developed and signed by a representative of each government (See Attachment A, Memorandum of Friendly Exchange Relations Between Anqing City, Anhui Province, P.R. China and Sunnyvale, California, USA). Mayor Julia Miller signed this memorandum on behalf of the City of Sunnyvale. Council is now requested to ratify the agreement between the two cities.
BACKGROUND
The City of Sunnyvale has on several occasions hosted international visitors for the purpose of sharing information about our management systems and governmental structure. A study issue in April 2003 explored the establishment of an international exchange program, similar to a Sister Cities program. As a result of this study issue, City Council approved an Informal Friendship Program. This program enables the City of Sunnyvale to enter into non-binding memorandums with international cities to develop partnerships, to provide opportunities for cultural exchange, and to create an atmosphere in which positive economic and community development can be implemented.
In January, 2003, City Council ratified a memorandum of friendly exchange with Pinghu City in China (RTC#03-018- Ratification of Memorandum on Friendly Exchange Relations Between Pinghu City, Zhejiang China and the City of Sunnyvale).
EXISTING POLICY
GOAL 7.3F: Investigate and implement productivity improvements in order to enhance the effectiveness of service delivery.
Policy 2.3 Support an expansion of exports and international trade including increased trade agreements with other countries, which preserve regional economic interests in terms of critical economic, labor, infrastructure and environmental concerns.
DISCUSSION
On November 4, 2003, on behalf of the City of Sunnyvale, Mayor Julia Miller signed a Memorandum of Friendly Exchange Relations between Anqing City, Anhui Province, the Peoples Republic of China and the City of Sunnyvale. As a result of the agreement, the City of Sunnyvale and Anqing City agree to help promote the mutual understanding and cooperation between the two cities. Both sides agree to develop various exchanges and cooperation on community and economic development, cultural exchange, education, technology, business, and trade on a fair and mutually beneficial basis. Both sides also agree to encourage the businesses in each City to seek opportunities to develop various forms of partnerships with their counterparts.
By ratifying the agreement, the City of Sunnyvale agrees to keep regular contact for the convenience of discussion, consultation, cooperation and exchange of information on common issues and concerns.
FISCAL IMPACT
The fiscal impact of the agreement itself is minimal. However, the impact could become significant depending on Council’s direction in executing the agreement.
PUBLIC CONTACT
Public contact was made through posting of the Council agenda on the City's official notice bulletin board, posting of the agenda and report on the City's web page, publication of the Council agenda in the San Jose Mercury News, and the availability of the report in the Library and the City Clerk's Office.
Alternatives
1. Council ratifies the Memorandum on Friendly Exchange Relations Between Anqing City, Anhui Province, P.R. China and Sunnyvale, California, USA
2. Council does not ratify the Memorandum
3. Other actions as directed by Council
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends Alternative 1.
Prepared by:
Peter Bassett
Legislative Analyst
Reviewed by:
Coryn Campbell
Intergovernmental Relations Manager
Approved by:
Amy Chan
Acting City Manager
Attachment
A. Memorandum of Friendly Exchange Relations Between Anqing City, Anhui Province, P.R. China and Sunnyvale, California, USA (pdf format)