Leeds is a city with its own rich history and traditions. Its international ties have developed over many years, with such cooperation having a positive impact on the city’s growth across various sectors. Leeds City Council has long played an active role in strengthening international links and establishing partnerships with cities across the globe. Today, we take a closer look at this topic. Read more at leedsyes.com.
Cooperation with Twin Cities
Over the years, the Leeds City Council has introduced a number of initiatives aimed at enhancing economic, cultural, and educational exchanges, helping to cement Leeds’ status as a global urban centre. A key part of this international cooperation has been its twinning programmes, many of which were established in the second half of the 20th century. Today, Leeds maintains strong ties with over 10 cities worldwide, including Enschede (Netherlands), Gdańsk (Poland), Dar es Salaam (Tanzania), and Harbin (China). These partnerships are realised through joint projects, cultural exchanges, and collaboration in sustainable development.
Since 2020, Leeds officials have paid particular attention to expanding economic partnerships and innovative networks. For instance, between 2023 and 2025, more than 15 official delegations visited countries in Europe, Asia, and Africa, helping to attract over £50 million in foreign investment into the city’s local economy.
Leeds has also been actively involved in international forums such as Cities4Cities and the CEE–UK Building Bridges 2025 programme. Through these platforms, the city showcases its achievements and builds partnership networks to support the development of technology, education, and healthcare. In fact, in 2025, Leeds became one of the central hubs for this initiative, which supports Ukrainian and British companies in expanding international cooperation.
The Importance of International Investment
The city also actively supports academic and scientific collaboration through partnerships with global universities. Of particular note is the University of Leeds, which in recent years has signed more than 20 agreements related to academic exchanges and joint research projects. As a result, young specialists from the city’s partner regions are increasingly engaged in collaborative work and training.
To enhance the effectiveness of its urban diplomacy, Leeds is also embracing digital communication tools, which enable continuous dialogue with international stakeholders. These innovations are expanding opportunities for attracting investors and professionals, while also promoting cultural exchange and the preservation of shared historical heritage.
International cooperation cannot flourish without investment. That’s why international investment plays a crucial role in the development of Leeds’ economy, infrastructure, and external relations. The city administration works actively to attract foreign investment, which supports the modernisation of the transport network, digital technologies, environmental projects, and other key areas of urban development. As mentioned above, between 2023 and 2025, Leeds secured over £50 million in foreign investment through active international engagement and participation in partnership programmes.
These investments are being directed towards projects that improve the quality of life for residents, foster innovation, and promote the city’s sustainable growth. Furthermore, they support the modernisation of the transport infrastructure, including the expansion of cycle routes and green spaces, as well as the implementation of digital solutions such as open data platforms that make city governance more transparent and citizen-friendly.