Wellington and the Palestinian city of Ramallah have signed a partnership agreement aimed at promoting collaboration and cooperation between the two places.

The Friendly City Agreement was signed simultaneously by Mayor Tory Whanau in Wellington and Mayor Issa Kassis, who joined online from Ramallah.

"In light of the genocide in Gaza, this partnership serves as a powerful symbol of solidarity and hope. It is through such relationships that we can promote understanding and work towards a more peaceful future."

In 2023, Wellington City Council voted to initiate a Friendly City relationship with Ramallah, the first step towards becoming sister cities.

Ramallah has a population of about 85,000 people and is located 16 kilometres north of Jerusalem on the West Bank.