Auckland City Mayor John Banks says he will work with officials to develop a sister city in India if elected to the new Auckland Council in October.
Mr Banks this week launched the Auckland chapter of the New Zealand – India Business Council and said that a sister city relationship with India would deliver significant economic, social and cultural benefits.
“India is already an economic powerhouse and it will only continue to grow. If we want to boost development in this great city of Auckland, we must develop and nurture closer links to India. I will commit to doing that as Mayor of a Greater Auckland.
“New Zealand is currently negotiating a Free Trade Agreement with India and I believe we need to be ready to move on the idea of a sister city immediately after that is signed.”
Mr Banks wants Auckland promoted as a film-friendly destination, especially with Bollywood filmmakers. He says this could provide experience and employment opportunities for young Aucklanders.
“Bollywood is one of the biggest players in the film industry, if not the biggest. I believe Auckland offers a variety of top-class locations that could be prefect for filming, and closer links will make this easier.
“I have been fortunate enough in the past two months to visit several India events here in Auckland and they have been fantastic. The Indian community is very valued.
“I look forward to working with the people of India, especially those who now call Auckland home because they like me celebrate success, hard work, opportunity and community. These are all values we want for a Greater Auckland Council.”
