A signpost in Civic Center Plaza displays some of San Diego’s sister cities (By Frank Sabatini Jr.)

Did You Know…

By Frank Sabatini Jr.

…that as of recently San Diego now has 17 official sister cities?

The latest to join our global sisterhood was Marseille, France—a city known for its Mediterranean climate (much like ours), not to mention its cosmopolitan inhabitants, historic ports, and high-tech industries. Oh, and let’s not overlook the fact that Marseille is the birthplace of bouillabaisse, the popular saffron-kissed stew made traditionally with rockfish and shellfish.

A ceremony at San Diego’s Civic Center Plaza announcing the new sisterly connection included French consul Adrien Frier, U.S. Representative Scott Peters, and San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria. The dignitaries agreed that the relationship with Marseille will lead to partnerships pertaining to clean-energy solutions, broader open markets, and innovation in life sciences.

Other San Diego “sisters” include Tijuana; Panama City; Yantai, China; Perth, Australia; Yokohama, Japan; and Jalalabad, Afghanistan. Visit the website of San Diego International Sister Cities Association for a complete list.