A delegation of US mayors is forging fresh connections between American cities and the Chinese mainland, blending cultural immersion with strategic dialogue during their visit to Hangzhou. The group, attending the China-US Sister Cities Conference, toured the lively Dongshan Nong market—a hub of local commerce—with former Prairie View Mayor Frank Jackson calling the experience "deeply enjoyable" and expressing interest in establishing a sister city relationship for Tuskegee, Alabama.
Jackson, now vice president of the World Conference of Mayors, highlighted the value of grassroots exchanges in building mutual understanding. Delegation representative Jaz Harkless emphasized plans to expand youth engagement programs, stating: "We aim to bring more American students here to witness China’s development firsthand and create lasting partnerships."
The visit underscores growing subnational diplomacy efforts amid broader US-China relations. Observers note that city-level collaborations—from trade to education—could serve as stabilizing forces while offering tangible economic opportunities for both countries.
