DBEDT and its Office of International Affairs (OIA)* has established close working relationships with foreign governments and non-governmental organizations, federal agencies and national organizations. These relationships serve to raise Hawaii’s profile internationally, attract dynamic cooperative programs and stimulate Hawaii’s economy. Many of these projects fall under OIA’s Sister-State programs.

* Formerly known as the "Office of International Relations (OIR)"

Policy

In 1993, the then Office of International Relations recognized that, in establishing sister relationships, economic benefit should be co-equal to the “historic purposes of friendship, cultural ties, and goodwill. Consequently any Sister-State relationship must provide for clear economic benefits.” Hawaii’s Sister-State Policy was based on the following criteria:

• Strong evidence of interest by the potential Sister-State.
• Clear prospects for mutual economic advantage.
• Substantial grassroots support for the relationship.
• A strong record of activities.
• Potential for expanded cultural, educational and government exchanges.

Importantly, the report went on to state that:

• Sister-State relationships are partnerships between governments, but require active and ongoing participation by the private sector to sustain the relationship.
• Because the State’s capacity to manage Sister-State relationships is finite, a means of terminating moribund or defunct relationships should be provided for.

Process

The Office of International Affairs outlined a process for establishing a Sister-State relationship.

• A detailed application form will be provided after initial consultation with DBEDT/OIA regarding a proposed relationship. The form to be filled out by proposer will include questions on such areas as geography, economic structure, cultural resources, primary industries, foreign trade and business, and sports.
• OIA makes a preliminary review and develop a recommendation to the Governor.
• The Governor reviews the recommendation and either holds the recommendation or forwards it to the Legislature.
• The Legislature adopts a concurrent resolution which authorizes the Governor to enter into an agreement with the prospective Sister-State.
• OIA and the prospective sister develop the mechanics and language of the agreement and subsequent program of cooperation.

Map of the World(produced by the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency)

State of Hawaii's Sister States/Cities Annual Reports	2007	2006	2005