The United Nations University (UNU) and the Japan-United States Sister City Association (JUSSCA) have officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), marking a new strategic partnership aimed at fostering subnational diplomacy and advancing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Dr. Tshilidzi Marwala, Rector of the United Nations University and Shin Koyamada, Chairman of JUSSCA signed the agreement. 

The agreement underscores the shared commitment of UNU and JUSSCA to strengthen people-to-people connections between Japan and the United States, enhance mutual understanding, and promote collaborative solutions to global challenges.

Under the framework of this MOU, UNU and JUSSCA will jointly host the Japan-United States Leadership Summit (SUMMIT), a flagship event convening elected officials, government representatives, academics, and key stakeholders from both countries. The SUMMIT will serve as a platform to discuss pressing issues related to the SDGs, explore cross-cultural partnerships, and identify pathways for local and global development.