October 21, 2025 | Hamamatsu – UCLG ASPAC active member, Hamamatsu hosted the “Intercity Collaboration Forum” in partnership with UCLG ASPAC to explore new opportunities through the utilisation of international networks and promote future global collaboration. This event was also attended by Japanese Local Governments, CLAIR, JICA, JETRO, Regional International Associations, NGO, NPOs, Diplomatic Establishments in Japan, and local people.
Secretary General Dr. Bernadia Irawati Tjandradewi showcased UCLG ASPAC’s extensive network and its works, sharing potential that cities and local governments can tap into for widening their collaboration. She said “When cities engage in structured peer-to-peer learning, they share policy experiences, data, and innovations with other municipalities facing similar challenges. Unlike informal exchanges, these structured processes are typically part of city networks. Cities that are participating in such programmes often achieve policies that are around 30–40% more effective.”
Session 1: Development of People-to-People Exchanges through Intercity Collaboration
Speakers: Mr. Maruyama Kouji, President and CEO of Enshu Railway; Mr. Matsui Yoshimasa, President and CEO of Tenryu Hamanako Railway, and Mr. Huang Ching-Shinn, President of Taipei City Metro
The first session highlighted the case of cooperative exchange activities of three companies, which completed a friendship agreement in the previous year. The companies have since engaged in various cooperations that serve as models for private sector collaboration transcending national boundaries. Each speaker shared insights into their company’s ongoing initiatives, the challenges encountered in implementing intercity cooperative projects, and the prospects for future exchange. The discussion also addressed how private enterprises could act as key drivers in revitalising regional communities, encouraging tourism, and generating new cultural and economic activity through sustained collaboration. Speakers highlighted the Hamamatsu–Taipei tourism exchange, an initiative designed to boost tourism and foster closer people-to-people connections. They shared success stories ranging from creative cross-promotion campaigns to joint marketing efforts encouraging mutual visits. At the same time, they acknowledged several challenges — from language barriers and uneven travel flows to differing regulations and network scales, such as regional train lines in Japan compared with Taipei’s extensive metropolitan transit system.
Session 2: Potential of Expansion and Development of Intercity Cooperation
Speakers: Mayor of Hamamatsu City, Mr. Nakano Yusuke, and Deputy Mayor of Taipei City, Mr. Chang Wen-Te, moderated by Secretary General Bernadia.
The session came alive with stories of how cities are reaching beyond their borders to grow together. Taipei City shared how intercity partnerships have strengthened its resilience and sparked innovation — from disaster prevention and sports to cultural events and smart city development. Hamamatsu City took the audience on a journey through its global connections, highlighting how international exchanges and collaborations have breathed new life into its tourism, culture, and education sectors.
