Buffalo builds bonds with sister cities

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - Buffalo is celebrating it's rich ties with Europe. Many different customs and cultures define the Queen City and western New York.

Buffalo is building a stronger bond with it's sister cities.

Dozens of French, Belgian and Swiss nationals are now traveling across western New York.

It's all part of Sister Cities International, a cultural and business-building program spearheaded by Buffalo State College.

The tour group will visit many different corporations, cultural centers, along with medical and educational institutions.

The goal is to build international partnerships and develop exchange programs.

Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown said, "This is more than just a cultural exchange, and it's more than just a trip for tourism. We will be exchanging also in the areas of business, science, medicine and education. And that can better our communities whether they be in Europe or here in Buffalo and western New York."

It is the sixth visit since Buffalo and Lille, France established their sister cities program twenty years ago.