TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Kaohsiung and Basseterre, the capital of Saint Kitts and Nevis, established sister city ties on Tuesday (June 25).

Kaohsiung Mayor Chen Chi-mai (陳其邁) and Saint Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister Terrance Drew signed an agreement at a ceremony, making Basseterre the 40th sister city of Kaohsiung, according to the Kaohsiung City Government.

Chen said Taiwan and Saint Kitts and Nevis have enjoyed over 40 years of diplomatic relations. He hoped for further cooperation between Kaohsiung and Basseterre in smart city technology and sustainable development to strengthen city relations and deepen the democratic friendship between the two nations.

Drew expressed confidence that Basseterre and Kaohsiung will develop mutually beneficial relationships in tourism and culture. He said the sister-city relationship was made possible because of shared ideals. 

Many students from Saint Kitts and Nevis are already studying in Taiwan, and traditional music performances and cultural activities will surely be held in Kaohsiung in the future, he added.

Drew has been leading a delegation around Taiwan since June 22 to bolster bilateral relations. He is set to depart Wednesday (June 26).