Mayor of Biratnagar Metropolitan City, Bhim Parajuli, who is currently visiting Australia met the Mayor Councillor of City of Greater Geelong, Bruce Harwood at Geelong City Hall on Monday, 12 August.
In the meeting Mayor Parajuli raised the possibility of establishing a sister city relationship between Geelong and Biratnagar. Mayor Parajuli shared similarities with Geelong while sharing his idea – citing geographical, cultural and economic similarities between the two cities. Mayor Parajuli also shared insight into Biratnagar’s ethnically and linguistically diverse community.
Mayor Parajuli and Mayor Cr Hardwood said that they look forward to exploring how a sister city relationship has the potential to mutually benefit both cities culturally and economically. The delegates exchanged gifts before concluding with group photographs.
The meeting saw in attendance Hon. Consul General of Nepal to Victoria, Chandra Yonzon along with community members.
About Biratnagar:
Also known as the industrial capital of Nepal, Biratnagar is Nepal’s second largest city. It currently serves as the provincial capital of Province 1. While being an economic hub of Nepal, the city is also a melting point of people from different walks of life. The city lies in eastern Nepal, and is near the Indian border, thus proving to be a strategic location too.
In June 2018, British Ambassador to Nepal, Richard Morris suggested making Biratnagar a ‘sister city’ with a British city.
About Geelong:
The City of Greater Geelong is a local government area in the Barwon South West region of Victoria, Australia. Like Biratnagar, the city is host to people from all walks of life. The city is host to Pako Festa – an annual festival which celebrates cultural diversity.
Geelong has sister city relations with the following cities:
- Viqueque, East Timor
- Lianyungang, China
- Izumiotsu, Japan.
