York, Pennsylvania and Arles, France to Renew U.S.’ Oldest Sister City Relationship, Sign New Charter

The cities of York, Pennsylvania and Arles, France will be renewing their historic "sister city" status on a trip by the York Twinning Association to the Arles community from September 20th to September 22nd. The 70-year relationship of York and Arles is recognized as the oldest, continuous sister city relationship in the United States.

Mayor Michael Helfrich of York, Pennsylvania will be part of the York Twinning Association delegation and will sign another 70-year commitment of amity. Trips between sister cities alternate between countries. The goal is to connect cultures and build friendships. President Dwight D. Eisenhower was an original supporter of sister city programs in post-World War II Europe; he believed forming sister cities helps bolster peace and alliances.

This will be Mayor Helfrich's first trip to Arles. Many individuals from both Arles and York's other sister city, Leinfelden-Echterdingen, Germany, have visited York over the years and been welcomed by Mayor Helfrich.