The International Relations Committee advances Rochester as a global city and promotes peace through mutual respect, understanding, and cooperation through citizen diplomacy – one individual, one community at a time – for the benefit of Rochester and its Sister and Project cities. In Rochester, our International Relations Committee:

• Coordinates the Sister and Project Cities program.
• Supports international affairs and information in the City.
• Provides a welcoming and supportive climate for international residents.
• Supports and encourages internal consciousness in the community.

Sister and Project Cities are national initiatives to develop economic, cultural, and technical exchanges between US cities, counties, and states with corresponding communities worldwide. Sister Cities promote peace through people-to-people relationships. Project cities are partnerships with other cities to foster growth towards a specific goal. Rochester, Minnesota has five Sister Cities and two Project Cities:

Sister Cities:

• Tboung Khmum Province, Cambodia (in progress)
• Xianyang, China
• Moosburg Germany
• Siheung City, South Korea
• Kathmandu, Nepal (inactive)

Project Cities:

• Muenster, Germany (Energy)
• Akita, Japan (Peace)

The International Relations Committee publishes a quarterly newsletter. If you would like to be added to the email distribution list, please email Michon at mrogers@rochestermn.gov

Fall 2025

Members of the International Relations Committee are active in creating a more understanding and cooperative Rochester community by attending cultural events, gatherings, and celebrations.  

Cambodian Celebration: 4/26/25 

Mayor Norton welcomed Rochester's newest Sister City, Tboung Khmum Province, Cambodia, during Cambodian New Year. 

At this event, International Relations Committee Members were able to partake in traditional Buddhist practices, eat Cambodian foods, and participate in a blessing dance.

 

Multicultural Event: Century High School, 5/24/25

On May 24th, Century High School students hosted a multicultural expo, highlighting cultural dances, songs, and foods from around the world.

The International Relations Committee, in collaboration with the Office of the Mayor, worked a table. Members of the committee educated the community on Rochester's Sister and Project Cities, highlighting the upcoming trip to Japan. 

Committee members also led origami, an informational quiz, and got to try candy from our Sister and Project cities!

 

 

Climate Smart Municipalities

Sister Cities International

The Office of the Mayor is seeking volunteers to be part of Friendship Committees for each of our Sister Cities to help re-invigorate our relationships with each city, work on joint projects, and coordinate future endeavors to link our communities in new and creative ways. We are seeking both international residents residing in Rochester and Rochester residents with a particular interest in learning more about one of these cities/countries. The Friendship Committees will meet monthly and meetings will be scheduled based on member’s availability.

• Muenster and Moosburg, Germany Friendship Committee
• Akita, Japan Friendship Committee
• Xianyang, China Friendship Committee
• Siheung, South Korea Friendship Committee
• Kathmandu, Nepal Friendship Committee

To express interest in joining one or more Friendship Committee(s), please email the Office of the Mayor with your interest and experience, availability for meetings, as well as the city/cities you are interested in.