The Sister Cities Lawrence program has canceled two student exchanges and a delegation visit because of the coronavirus pandemic.

The program canceled student exchanges for 2020 between Lawrence and Eutin, Germany, and Hiratsuka, Japan, as well as the 30th anniversary visit of a delegation from Lawrence to Hiratsuka that was scheduled for October, according to a news release from the program. Other delegations and celebrations have also been postponed.

“This is a very disappointing situation for our organization,” Bill Keel, who chairs the program’s governing board, said in the release. “This is a unique time which requires unique actions and sacrifices. And, these participants are sacrificing a life-changing experience.”

Additionally, the very first delegation from Iniades, Greece, has postponed its trip to Lawrence. The group of Greek students and adults was scheduled to arrive in Lawrence in early April for a homestay with local families. The group now hopes to visit Lawrence in the late summer. The celebration of the 30th anniversary of the Lawrence-Hiratsuka relationship will be postponed until 2021.

Keel said the families of the students will receive full refunds. He said the program anticipates the resumption of all exchanges next year.