Located seventeen miles west of Guangzhou in the Pearl River Delta and three hours by nonstop express train from Hong Kong, Foshan, People's Republic of China, became Stockton's fourth Sister City in May of 1993. It is about 3,000 years old but is rapidly modernizing. Powered by new technology it's major industries are contributing significantly to it's economy. As an example, industrial production in 1993 reached over 8 billion dollars, an increase of 29.2% over 1992. It is proud of it's 4-year University, it's new 8.5 million dollar city library and it's modern railroad terminal. It places great emphasis on cultural and sports activities and in 1990 was designated one of the 10 most hygienic cities in China. It has a population of 360,000, but has administrative responsibility for 2,994,800 in adjoining areas.

Recently, the Guangdong Provincial government made a strategic decision to establish Foshan as the third largest city in Guangdong, expecting Foshan to become an important force in Guangdong province's economic future. The people of Foshan, being always bold to taste new things, shall strive to make Foshan the economic capital of new China.

The sister city relationship with Foshan was formally initiated in 1993 with a delegation from Stockton, led by former Mayor Joan Darrah to visit Foshan. The following year Mayor Zhong Guang Chao led a delegation to Stockton and agreements were signed by both mayors for Foshan to become the fourth sister city for Stockton.

Our first trip to Foshan was on October 18, 1989, led by President John Wentz, consisting of 41 persons. Since then, several trips have been made. The most recent one was on October 23, 2004, led by Bob Hong.

Beginning in 1995, groups of English teachers from Foshan high schools have come to Stockton to attend San Joaquin Delta College for three months to improve their oral and writing skills. While here they were hosted by local families, providing opportunities for cultural exchange and friendship.

Once again, six English teachers from Foshan, China will be in Stockton to attend the Fall session at San Joaquin Delta College. They will arrive on August 12th and stay for approximately three months. We need host families for them, so if you can host one or two for a couple of weeks during their stay please call Bob Hong at 941-0932.

In September, a delegation of 10 officials from Foshan will visit Stockton. The time is not yet definite so more details will come later.

Photographic Sources: From the books "Today's Foshan" and "Foshan - The Ceramic City of South China"