MEDAN | INDATANEWS.COM - Mayor of Medan, Rico Waas, has extended an offer of strategic cooperation to the Qingyuan municipal government in Guangdong Province, People's Republic of China, particularly in the fields of education and waste-to-energy management. The proposal was delivered during a reception for the Vice Mayor of Qingyuan, Mr. Min Fei, and his delegation at Meeting Room I of Medan City Hall on Thursday, June 25, 2026.
The meeting is regarded as an important milestone in strengthening relations between the two cities, both of which are committed to a sustainable development agenda. On this occasion,
Rico Waas highlighted
Medan's diverse potential as the capital of North Sumatra Province and as a gateway to the western part of Indonesia with a strategic position in Southeast Asia.
With a population of around 2.5 million, Medan is one of the largest metropolitan cities in Indonesia. Its geographical location positions the city not only as an economic hub, but also as a key center for trade and mobility in the region.
Medan Strengthens Its Identity as a Multicultural City
Rico Waas emphasized that Medan's strength lies in its social diversity. Various ethnic groups live together in harmony and collectively contribute to the city's development. This social composition makes Medan an open city for interregional and international cooperation.
"
Medan is an open city that embraces diversity. Our population consists of various ethnic groups who live peacefully and harmoniously together. That is one of our greatest strengths," he said.
Economic Dynamism and Regional Role
This cultural harmony not only defines the city's identity but also serves as the foundation for an investment-friendly and stable cooperation climate. In addition,
Medan continues to record steady economic growth driven by trade, services, industry, and the culinary sector. Its cultural diversity has also fostered a vibrant culinary scene that attracts both domestic and international tourists.
Medan as the Economic Gateway of North Sumatra
Furthermore, the mayor underscored
Medan's strategic role as a gateway to major tourist destinations in North Sumatra, particularly the internationally renowned Lake Toba. This position makes
Medan a central hub for economic activity, tourism, and mobility in northern Sumatra.
The city government continues to develop infrastructure and improve public services to ensure inclusive and sustainable growth.
Cooperation in Energy and Education in Focus
Rico Waas further stated that Medan is currently developing several strategic environmental programs, including waste-to-energy initiatives. The program holds significant potential for international cooperation, particularly with Qingyuan.
He emphasized that collaboration in environmental management and education could serve as an important entry point to deepen bilateral relations between the two cities. Beyond knowledge exchange, such cooperation is expected to deliver tangible benefits for local communities.
"We hope this visit opens new opportunities for mutually beneficial cooperation, especially in education, environmental initiatives, and other strategic sectors to support the future development of both cities," he said.
The visit of the
Qingyuan delegation was warmly welcomed by the
Medan city government.
(IDNC)REPORTER: Teguh Panjaitan | EDITOR: Fik Sagala