Guangzhou and São Paulo signed a Memorandum of Understanding on Enhancing Exchange and Cooperation on November 24 local time in Brazil, officially becoming sister cities. With the signing of the MOU, Guangzhou has now established sister-city relations with 111 cities worldwide.

The iconic monument in São Paulo, Brazil, photographed by drone on May 15, 2025.

The Guangzhou delegation was led by Vice Mayor Hu Hao, while São Paulo was represented by Angela Gandra, Municipal Secretary of International Relations, along with City Councilor George Hato and other guests.

Gandra, speaking on behalf of Mayor Ricardo Nunes, welcomed Guangzhou's visit. She noted that São Paulo, Brazil's economic engine, now counts Guangzhou as its 12th international partner city. She expressed hopes for extensive collaboration in public policy, cultural exchange, and sustainable development to deliver mutual benefits.

Luz Station in São Paulo, Brazil, photographed by drone on May 15, 2025.

Hu described Guangzhou as an international commercial hub, a transportation gateway, and a center for global engagement, highlighting the city's strengths in population size, economic power, innovation, culture, and ecology. He stated that the new partnership will deepen China–Brazil friendship, with future cooperation in metro construction, urban innovation, trade, and education. Guangzhou also invited São Paulo to participate in the 2026 Guangzhou International Award for Urban Innovation.

Photo | Xinhua