Province inks sisterhood ties with Russian region

CEBU – The Province of Cebu and the Region of Vladimir in Russia recently inked a sisterhood agreement, marking a first in the history of the province to establish sisterhood ties with a local government in the Russian Federation.

The Memorandum of Agreement was signed by Governor Gwendolyn Garcia and Vladimir Region Governor Nikolay Vinogradov during Garcia’s recent visit to Russia.

The agreement enables the two local governments to “foster close exchanges and cooperation based on mutual equality, respect and understanding.” The two leaders also promised to help each other in advancing programs on tourism, education, culture, industry, agriculture, science and technology and sports.

The sisterhood agreement with the Region of Vladimir is so far the fifth alliance the province has forged with local governments from other countries. The other three are with Sichuan in China, the territory of Guam, Gangwon in Korea, and Ljubljana in Slovenia.

In a press conference, Armi Garcia, Honorary Consul to the Russian Federation, said the signing of the MOA also enabled the province to forge an academic partnership or exchange program between the Vladimir State University and the University of San Carlos and the University of San Jose-Recoletos.

In turn, the Philippines reportedly offered free visa for 21 days for Russians intend to visit the country.

“The visit of Gov. Garcia is remarkable and a historic first…there are lots of opportunities in Russia now,” Armi said, quoting Philippine Ambassador to Russia Victor Garcia.

Armi said the Cebu province delegation was also able to participate in the Gifts Expo in Moscow last Sept. 23 to 26 where the province was able to get a one-year contract to be the exclusive distributor of household decors. 

The Cebu province delegation included Board Members Wilfredo Caminero, chairman of the committees on agriculture and livelihood, public safety and peace and order; Juan Bolo, chairman of the committees on provincial and municipal properties and education; Wenceslao Gakit, chairman of the committees on budget and appropriations and ways and means; Peter John Calderon, chairman of the committees on public health and social services and laws and review on ordinances; and representatives from the Mandaue Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Being the largest exporter of petroleum and natural gas, Russia recently experienced an economic boom with the increase in oil prices. Russia is also the largest producer of palladium, platinum, diamond, nickel, and gold.

Belonging to Russia’s Central Economic Region, the Vladimir Region is one of Russia’s most economically developed regions. Formed in August 14, 1944, Vladimir was the old capital of Russia and the country’s oldest historical and artistic center.

With a population of 1.6 million, Vladimir thrives through its main industries like engineering and metalworking, agriculture, textiles, glass, and timber. – Garry B. Lao/JMO (THE FREEMAN)