23:I[3670,["8500","static/chunks/8500-3953cc33eeceb44e.js","8437","static/chunks/8437-a1bc798bb21cc4d8.js","2480","static/chunks/app/%5Bstate%5D/%5Bcity%5D/%5Bsection%5D/%5Bslug%5D/page-91c1194c5b76e295.js"],"SocialShare"] 25:I[1527,["8500","static/chunks/8500-3953cc33eeceb44e.js","8437","static/chunks/8437-a1bc798bb21cc4d8.js","2480","static/chunks/app/%5Bstate%5D/%5Bcity%5D/%5Bsection%5D/%5Bslug%5D/page-91c1194c5b76e295.js"],"RailSubscribe"] 26:I[2837,["8500","static/chunks/8500-3953cc33eeceb44e.js","8437","static/chunks/8437-a1bc798bb21cc4d8.js","2480","static/chunks/app/%5Bstate%5D/%5Bcity%5D/%5Bsection%5D/%5Bslug%5D/page-91c1194c5b76e295.js"],"BroadstreetAd"] 27:I[7332,["8500","static/chunks/8500-3953cc33eeceb44e.js","8437","static/chunks/8437-a1bc798bb21cc4d8.js","2480","static/chunks/app/%5Bstate%5D/%5Bcity%5D/%5Bsection%5D/%5Bslug%5D/page-91c1194c5b76e295.js"],"EzoicAd"] 24:T4d5,

This is going to be the start of a beautiful friendship. The cities of Austin and Florence, Italy entered into a "historic" partnership agreement last week.

Austin Mayor Kirk Watson and Florence Mayor Dario Nardella finalized the Protocol of Cooperation Agreement, which Watson said is meant to pave the way for a "dynamic future of collaboration and friendship."

Through dual initiatives, the accord opens up a pipeline for communication, sharing knowledge, cultural and educational exchange, creating relationships, and encouraging economic growth.

The agreement aligns with Austin's ongoing goal to boost the city's global presence through the Economic Development Department's Global Business Expansion Division.

Interested in learning more about the city's international endeavors? Read our breakdown of Austin's Sister Cities.