Waterford city and St John's in Newfoundland, Canada, were twinned this week to mark the significant historical connections between Newfoundland and the south-east of Ireland.
The twinning ceremony, held at Waterford's city hall, was presided over by the mayor of Waterford city, Cllr Oliver Clery, his counterpart from St John's, Mr Andy Wells, and the respective city managers.
The four men signed two scrolls, one of which will remain in Waterford, and exchanged city flags.
The Canadian ambassador to Ireland, Mr Mark Moher, attended the ceremony, as well as Newfoundland and Labrador Minister for Industry Trade and Employment, Mr Kelvin Parsons, and his deputy Minister, Ms Donna Kelland. Representing the Irish Government was Minister of State for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Mr Michael Ahern.
Members of the Irish Newfoundland Association were also there, and highlighted Ireland's unique contribution to Canadian life.
Cllr Clery emphasised the importance of forging links between the two cities, which had so much in common.
"There is a 300-year historical connection between Newfoundland and the south-east of Ireland. It was felt by the Irish and Canadian governments that such a link should now be recognised formally.
"As Waterford is the largest city in the south-east, and St John's is the capital of Newfoundland, it was considered that Waterford should acknowledge the fact that so many Irish people with ancestors from the region now reside in Newfoundland."
Mayor Clery visited St John's in June and said he was pleasantly surprised by the "Irishness" of the place and its people.