For the first time ever, an agriculture and trade expo between sister cities Kelowna and Kasugai took place Wednesday.

Kasugai delegates arrived with candies, tissues and diapers, while Kelowna brought cherries, wine and honey.

“We have a group from Kasugai, approximately 50 of them, 29 of them official delegates. We have the deputy mayor and a few other officials, and they have requested to have an exchange of trades,” said Cathy Jennens, president of the sister city civic association.

Jennens said Kelowna has had a "beautiful relationship" with Kasugai for 35 years, and they are always hoping for economic developments between the two.

“They are trying to promote their trades in Kelowna, and Kelowna is trying to promote their trades to Kasuagi,” she said.
 
Deputy mayor Tatsuya Kato said it was his first time visiting Kelowna and that it is a beautiful place.

A formal re-signing of the sister city agreement also took place during the event.

“It would be wonderful if Kelowna and Kasaugi exchanged programs and exchanged friendships,” said Takanori Matsuo Kasugai's sister city president.

A seminar was slated for the evening, and 20 exhibitors from the Okanagan and Kasugai were in attendance.