The Same Sky has two main aims; firstly to demonstrate the extent of the borough's international links and the benefits they have brought to people of all ages within Gateshead; and secondly to encourage more people to become involved and take advantage of the exciting opportunities on offer.
Many of these opportunities have involved young people, giving them unique experiences of other cultures and peoples. Many have had the chance to visit other countries and even those who have not travelled abroad have used the ever-expanding Internet or letter exchanges to gain and share knowledge.
Many of the council's international links have benefited the borough as a whole. Long-term friendships have provided both social and economic opportunities.
In light of this the Council wishes to encourage international activity in the borough to enable as many people as possible to become involved.
The 'Same Sky' title is taken from a phrase sewn into the Japan Tapestry which hangs in Gateshead Civic Centre. Although the phrase refers to England and Japan, the same sentiment can apply to all of the links Gateshead has world-wide: "It is very far from England to Japan but it is the same sky."