LA PLATA, Md. — Charles County will formalize a Sister City Partnership Agreement with Matola, Mozambique, on June 10, 2025, during a signing ceremony at the Charles County Government Building. The agreement, fostering economic, cultural, and educational exchanges, marks a milestone in international cooperation. A delegation from Matola, led by the city’s mayor, will visit to strengthen ties through tours and events.
The ceremony underscores a shared commitment to mutual growth, initiated at Charles County’s 2019 International Trade Seminar with the Embassy of Mozambique. “Charles County values the opportunity to build meaningful connections with international partners who share our vision for innovation, inclusive economic development, and cultural enrichment,” said Commissioner President Reuben B. Collins II, Esq. “This Sister City partnership with Matola represents more than a ceremonial agreement—it is a gateway to mutual growth. We look forward to creating opportunities for our businesses to expand, our students to learn through cross-cultural exchange, and our communities to deepen their global awareness.”
The partnership outlines seven key areas: promoting trade and investment, advancing collaboration in agriculture, manufacturing, technology, and logistics, expanding education and youth exchange programs, and supporting tourism, cultural initiatives, and community-led development. Bilateral working committees will guide and monitor progress. “This partnership marks an exciting step in expanding Charles County’s international reach and advancing our economic development goals,” said Michelle DeSoto Frye, Acting Director of Economic Development. “It creates meaningful opportunities for investment, innovation, and collaboration that can support local businesses and strengthen our community.”
Despite a postponed 2020 trade mission due to the COVID-19 pandemic, engagement with Mozambique’s leadership, including Ambassador Alfredo Nuvunga, sustained momentum. “It’s rewarding to see this vision come full circle since our first Trade Summit in 2019,” said Lucretia Freeman-Buster, Chief of Business Services. “This is more than a ceremonial agreement—it’s a foundation for long-term opportunity—not just symbolic gestures, but real, impactful exchange.”
The Matola delegation’s visit includes tours of Charles County and meetings with local officials to foster cross-cultural and economic ties. The partnership aligns with Charles County’s goals of inclusive growth and global engagement, building on its economic development initiatives.
Since 2019, Charles County has prioritized international outreach, with the trade seminar sparking connections that led to this agreement. Matola, a key industrial hub in Mozambique, shares Charles County’s focus on economic diversification and community development, making it an ideal partner. The collaboration is expected to create opportunities for local businesses to access new markets, students to engage in global education, and residents to experience cultural enrichment through shared initiatives.
