WHEREAS, Timisoara, also named “The City of Roses,” is the most important city of the Western Region of Romania, symbolizing democracy, solidarity, tolerance, and initiative spirit; and
WHEREAS, The city is located on the Bega River course and is inhabited by over 350,000 Romanians, Hungarians, Serbians, Slovaks, Bulgarians and other nationalities, who symbolize the occidental mentality of this western city and are proud of their cultural tradition and economic performances; and
WHEREAS, In December 1989, the citizens of Timisoara, no longer enduring the oppressions and the deprivations of the communist regime, lightened the spark of revolution in Romania, becoming a symbol of human courage and sacrifice; and
WHEREAS, Philadelphia and Timisoara are similar in that they are in centers of regions that possess vast human and natural resources, and also represent important science, technology and business markets in the global economy; and
WHEREAS, Philadelphia is known as the “Cradle of Liberty,” and Timisoara is known as the “Martyr City of Romania.” The government of Timis County is structured much like Philadelphia’s, with City Hall housing a Mayor, County Council, Prefect’s Office and Chamber of Commerce; and
WHEREAS, It would be of great benefit to both Philadelphia and Timisoara to foster greater cooperation and communication between business professionals, government officials, scientists, educators, and technical experts; and
WHEREAS, These two cities have already begun a meaningful relationship in various areas, including economic development, trade, science, and technology transfer; now therefore
RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That we hereby recognize the City of Philadelphia and the City of Timisoara, County of Timis, Romania, as Sister Cities.
FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to representatives of the Romanian government, as evidence of the sincere approval and support of this legislative body
End