In 1987, when Beaverton’s first international Sister City relationship was established, particular attention was given to Pacific Rim countries, due to the strong existing cultural and economic ties with Beaverton. The first sister city relationships were established within Japan, Taiwan, and South Korea. A Russian city, located near the Pacific Rim, was the next relationship developed. Beaverton has since turned to the European continent, signing with a German city in 1993 and a French city in 1999.