Agenda items were as follows,
- Promotion of Educational and Cultural Exchange
- Promotion of Economic and Tourism Exchange
- Programme for 10th Anniversary of the Sister City Relationship
- Programme for 2005
- Other Matters
Although some small issues to work out were left after 2 hours' discussion, both cities basically agreed to expand mutual exchange in various fields and groups of people.
Additionally, establishment of a electric mailing list was proposed and agreed on in order to improve working-level communication between two cities.
The next "face to face" official meeting will be held probably in Ako in the autumn of 2005.
The minutes of the meeting is here.
On that evening, dressed up private citizens from Ako also visited the Rockingham City Council Office and Joined the official delegation.
The "Ako Lane" is very near to the Council Office.
Sign of Ako Lane.
At the entrance hall of the Council Office.
There was a show case displaying gifts from Ako.
Cr. Kometani, Chair (Speaker) of the Ako City Council, sitting at the mayor's desk with Cr. Sammels, Mayor of Rockingham (left) and Cr. Gibson, Deputy Mayor.
The assembly hall of the Council, where Councilors seats are laid out in horseshoe-shape.
The formal function started around 7:30 p.m. at the banquet hall in the Council Office.
Every table was decorated with balloons, which made a joyful atmosphere.
All attendances enjoyed nice dinner and pleasant conversation.
Cr. Kometani gave an address of thanks after dinner.
Everyone from Ako received a nice gift.
We sang the world famous Japanese song, "SUKIYAKI", in return for the invitation.
The second song was the Japanese number one hit song in 2003, "ONE OF A KIND".
People found themselves standing and dancing along with that song.
At the end of those song, we expressed our hearty thanks saying "WE LOVE ROCKINGHAM !!"
All Rights Reversed.