About Us
Sister Cities of Houston
Sister Cities of Houston is a volunteer based program that works directly with the City of Houston to manage and further official sister city relationships. We serve as a hub for institutional knowledge and best practices in the field of citizen diplomacy, connecting Houston to the world through mutually beneficial activities. Our goal is to transform our organizational image into a vibrant brand recognized as synonymous with "Global Houston".
Your gateway to global contacts, community, and opportunity.
About Sister Cities of Houston
Our Mission
Our mission is to involve individuals at all levels of U.S. society in citizen diplomacy. We believe that fostering people-to-people relations through the exchange of ideas and cultures lessens the chance of future world conflicts.
About Sister Cities of Houston
Our Vision
We strive to be the leading force in Houston for international networking and community cooperation, ensuring our residents have the direction and contacts needed to progress their global endeavors.
History of Sister Cities of Houston
Milestones of Diplomacy
1956 | Global Vision:
President Eisenhower proposes the Sister Cities concept to link citizens worldwide through shared culture and ideas.
1961 | First Partnership:
Houston officially establishes its inaugural sister-city relationship with Taipei, Taiwan.
1970s–80s | Rapid Growth:
The network expands globally, formalizing ties with Chiba (1972), Nice (1973), and Stavanger (1980).
1993 | European Bridge:
Houston partners with Leipzig, Germany, creating new avenues for cultural and academic exchange.
2001–15 | Strategic Expansion:
New partnerships form across the Middle East and Africa, including Abu Dhabi, Luanda, and Basrah.
2021 | Modern Innovation:
Ulsan, South Korea joins as the newest sister city, focusing on trade, technology, and industry.
