City celebrates Chicago link-up

Jun 20 2006

THE flag of Illinois has been hoisted high above Birmingham city centre to mark the start of a week-long cultural event in honour of sister city Chicago.

Experience Chicago features a programme of free events influenced or led by Stateside performers, including street theatre, music, football, baseball, a photo exhibition and cookery demonstrations.

The public events coincide with a visit by key business and governmental figures from Chicago, who will be seeking to further develop economic and political links between the two cities.

Council leader Coun Mike Whitby said: "Experience Chicago will be a real celebration of the flourishing partnership between two of the world's great cities, a partnership which will reap great benefits for many years to come.

"Forging new relationships with partners in the USA can only be good news for the local economy, leading to greater wealth, prosperity and job opportunities for the people of Birmingham.

"It is of great credit to this city that a major economic powerhouse such as Chicago considers us a credible partner.

"It's also symbolic of Birmingham 's status as a global city which is recognised the world over for its growing economic, cultural and social strength."

For full details of activities on offer visit www.birmingham.gov.uk/chicago.

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