Maui County and Higashimatsushima City, Japan, have formalized a Friendship City agreement built on shared disaster recovery experiences following the 2023 Maui wildfires. The partnership focuses on cultural exchange, youth education, and mutual support in long-term rebuilding efforts.
- Mayor Bissen and Higashimatsushima Mayor Atsumi signed the formal agreement at the Kalana O Maui County building on July 8, 2026.
- The relationship began through the Kibou for Maui program, which sent Lahainaluna High School students to Japan to learn from a community that rebuilt after the 2011 earthquake and tsunami.
- The agreement outlines cooperation in disaster preparedness, risk reduction, educational exchanges, and local government best practices.
- Higashimatsushima lost 1,110 residents in the 2011 disaster, giving it direct long-term recovery experience relevant to Lahaina’s ongoing rebuild.
Source: Maui Now
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