Assam and Japan Strengthen Ties Despite Visit Cancellation

Despite the cancellation of Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's visit to Assam, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has assured that the partnership between Assam and Japan remains strong. Both sides are committed to enhancing collaboration in key sectors such as electronics and infrastructure. The cancellation has sparked political debates, but the ongoing dialogue between Sarma and Japan's Ambassador signals a continued focus on economic and strategic cooperation. This situation echoes past instances where Assam missed hosting a Japanese Prime Minister, yet the commitment to mutual growth persists.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 26, 2026, 11:48 IST

Continued Cooperation Between Assam and Japan

File image of Assam CM with Japan's Ambassador to India, H.E. ONO Keiichi (Right) (Photo: @CMOfficeAssam/X)

Guwahati, June 26: Following the cancellation of Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's anticipated visit to Assam, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced on Friday that the collaboration between Assam and Japan is still progressing well, with both parties committed to enhancing cooperation in vital sectors.

Sarma shared on social media that he had a conversation with Japan's Ambassador to India, H.E. ONO Keiichi, on Thursday evening.

He noted, "The Ambassador reiterated the Japanese Government's dedication to strengthening its partnership with Assam as part of India's Act East Policy."

The Chief Minister mentioned that both sides have agreed to bolster collaboration in areas such as electronics, semiconductors, infrastructure, manufacturing, and entrepreneurship. He expressed optimism about attracting investments and creating new economic opportunities through partnerships with Japanese businesses and institutions.

Earlier this week, Sarma confirmed that the state government was notified about the schedule change but did not receive specific reasons for the cancellation. The summit is now anticipated to take place in New Delhi.

In preparation for the planned visit, Guwahati had undergone significant beautification efforts, including repainting flyovers, enhancing roads, and landscaping, to welcome the Japanese Prime Minister and a business delegation.

This visit would have marked Takaichi's inaugural bilateral trip to India as Prime Minister and was viewed as a crucial diplomatic opportunity for Assam and the Northeast under the Act East Policy.

The cancellation has also led to political tensions in Assam, with the ruling BJP and opposition parties exchanging accusations regarding the reasons for the change in plans.

This situation brings back memories of 2019 when then Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's visit to Assam was also canceled, marking the second occasion the state has missed the chance to host a Japanese Prime Minister despite thorough preparations.

Despite the cancellation of the Guwahati segment, the recent dialogue between the Chief Minister and the Japanese Ambassador indicates a mutual commitment to advancing economic and strategic cooperation, particularly in sectors crucial to Assam's industrial and investment goals.