Photo: MA.GOV
BOSTON (WBZ NewsRadio) — The bond between Massachusetts and Hokkaido, Japan dates back to the 19th century.
The two regions have shared exchanges of students, scholars, and ideas as well as signing the Sister State Agreement in 1990.
The agreement makes the relationship even stronger by pledging continued exchanges of education, culture, sports, industry, and science and technology.
Hokkaido is Japan's northern-most and 2nd largest island located at the top of the island.
On Wednesday, Governor Maura Healey hosted a delegation from Hokkaido celebrating the agreement's 35th anniversary.
Gov. Healey and Hokkaido Vice Gov. Shinichi Hamasaka signed a joint declaration reaffirming the Sister State Agreement and pledging the continued collaboration between the two.
Gov. Healey proclaimed Oct. 22 as 'Hokkaido Day' in Massachusetts.