"Tianjin and Kobe, as the representatives of Sino-Japanese friendship cities, have set a good example of collaboration," Xiu Gang, former president of Tianjin Foreign Studies University, said. "This not only reflects friendly exchanges among people in the two cities, but also points out an important path for promoting mutual understanding between China and Japan."

Given the current challenges in China-Japan relations, it is essential that both countries cultivate a peaceful and friendly strategic relationship that transcends sociopolitical differences and ideological divides, he said.

Luan said the enduring bond between Tianjin and Kobe fully demonstrates the power of international collaboration and mutual respect.

As both cities continue to innovate and grow, their partnership sets an example for other cities worldwide, demonstrating that cooperation and understanding can pave the way for a brighter, more sustainable future.

Yang Cheng in Tianjin contributed to this story.

Contact the writers at [email protected]

LIU JIANQIAO in Tianjin, WANG XU in Beijing and JIANG XUEQING in Kobe, Japan