NEWS

The Municipality of Panevėžys City is marking the fifth anniversary of its cooperation with the city of Toyohashi, Japan. The Partnership Agreement signed in 2019 laid the foundation for cultural exchange, educational initiatives, and friendly relations between the communities of two cities.

To commemorate this anniversary, events were held in Toyohashi, with special attention given to Lithuanian culture. A poetry reading evening titled “Discover Lithuania Through Poetry” was organized, and an exhibition showcasing Lithuania’s cultural heritage was opened.

The Mayor of Toyohashi City Mr. Naoto Nagasaka expressed his gratitude for the cooperation in organizing the commemorative events and also thanked Panevėžys for the congratulatory message and the city introduction video, which became part of the celebration.

During the event in Toyohashi, Ms. Aya Kimura introduced Lithuanian poetry, presented the history and cultural development of Lithuania. At the end of the event, participants—most of whom were hearing the Lithuanian language for the first time—read poems in Lithuanian, creating a unique and memorable atmosphere.

The event in Toyohashi was a reflection of the cultural partnership, allowing the Japanese community to gain a deeper understanding of Lithuania and Panevėžys. Initiatives like these strengthen intercultural dialogue and lay the basics for long-term cooperation between the partner cities.

Active collaboration continues in the field of art as well. Toyohashi is participating in the project “Cultural Parallels.” Since September 2024, photographs by Toyohashi photographer Takeshi Nimura have been displayed on the wall of a former hotel in the city centre of Panevėžys. This provides Panevėžys residents with an opportunity to get acquainted with the cultural heritage and natural landscapes of their partner city, including the famous Tezutsu fireworks.

One more cooperation initiative is planned—during the second half of May this year, 24 experts of education from Panevėžys will travel to Toyohashi. During the visit, they will explore the peculiarities of Japan’s education system and will try to establish connections with the local educational community.