Helsinki and Tokyo sign agreement to deepen urban cooperation

The City of Helsinki and the Tokyo Metropolitan Government have signed a memorandum of understanding to deepen cooperation across seven specific sectors. The agreement was signed in Tokyo by Helsinki Mayor Daniel Sazonov and Tokyo Governor Koike Yuriko.

The framework for practical exchange focuses on startups, innovation and industry; longevity; children and childcare; education; digitalization and AI; disaster preparedness and urban resilience; and culture and entertainment. The partnership aims to address shared urban challenges, such as managing aging populations and fostering technological innovation, by sharing expertise and knowledge.

This agreement builds upon a 2023 joint communique between the two cities. The signing coincides with a significant business and cultural delegation from Helsinki to Japan, featuring various sectors including health, food, travel, and audiovisual industries.