Redondo Gains Japanese Sister City

Redondo Beach Mayor Mike Gin and Itoman City Mayor Hirotsune Uehara in Okinawa, Japan signed official "Friendship Pledges" to cement the sister city relationship between the two municipalities Tuesday night.

Gin and Uehara signed the documents simultaneously via videoconferencing software.

"Thank you very much for the warm welcome," Uehara said via a translator.

In his own welcome address, Gin spoke of city officials' trip to Itoman City.

"Our trip to Itoman City last year was an unforgettable experience," he said. He later thanked the Itoman City officials for visiting Redondo Beach. "It was a great honor for all of us to host you in our community …

"The bridges we have built will allow wonderful opportunities … for years to come."

Itoman City joins Redondo Beach sister cities La Paz, Mexico and Zhangjiagang, China.