Foreign Officials Praised High Prospects of Vladivostok’s Economic Growth

VLADIVOSTOK. July 20. VOSTOK-MEDIA – Vladivostok mayor Igor Pushkaryov, Deputy Mayor of Vladivostok Aleksei Litvinv and the head of Department for Foreign Relations and Tourism Vladimir Saprykin have received a number of letters of gratitude from the heads and members of the delegations of the foreign cities that had attended the festivities on the occasion of the 150-Anniversary of Vladivostok.

“The warm welcome you and Vladivostok residents gave us made our stay in the city memorable,” says Akira Shinoda, the Mayor of Vladivostok’s sister-city – Niigata. “During the visit we had a chance to see that the preparation for APEC 2012 Russia is in full swing, and that Vladivostok is increasingly developing and thriving.”

“We are deeply grateful for the warm reception you have given to our delegation,” wrote Masanori Nishio, the mayor of another Japanese sister-city of Vladivostok – Hakodate. “The main aim of our visit, along with extending congratulation of Vladivostok residents on the occasion of the 150-Anniversary, was the further development and strengthening of the friendly relations between our cities. And this task has been completed successfully. We are glad to note that the friendly relations have received a boost lately.”

“Before our eyes Vladivostok turns into a window of Russia to the Asia-Pacific Region, a link with Asian countries. I’m confident that your city will be developing further,” he said.

Doug Rider, the President of San Diego-Vladivostock Sister Cities Society, despite the formal character of his letter, could not contain his pleasurable feelings: “On behalf of our delegation, I extend gratitude for the attention and hospitality we have enjoyed during our stay in your amazing city. It was a pleasure to be your guests!”

The vision for the future of Vladivostok as a major city capable of hosting high-profile events, outlined by Igor Pushkaryov, was substantiated by the stunning festive events, as well as during the formal meeting of Vladivostok authorities with the foreign delegations and at the solemn reception. It was an excellent week dedicated to the deepening of friendship and the international cooperation.

APEC 2012 Russia, a very important event for Vladivostok, is fast approaching. I’m sure that thanks to your activities as energetic and charismatic Mayor of this city as well as the heartfelt warmth of the city residents, the upcoming international event will be definitely a success.”