Do national and local priorities differ from each other? A mere decade ago the answer would have been a resounding yes. Today, however, cities in diverse parts of the world are rethinking this notion and opening themselves to new and inventive possibilities. Local government is becoming increasingly involved in matters of foreign policy. Prime examples of these trends include Paris, France and Sao Paolo, Brazil who have deputy mayors in charge of international affairs. The implications of the role of local government in global affairs are profound as cities and towns will have the opportunity to significantly promote economic development that takes into account the importance of sustainability.