Strengthening Ties: Japan's Ambassador Meets UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath

Japanese Ambassador Ono Keiichi recently met with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to explore ways to strengthen ties between Japan and the state. They discussed various collaboration opportunities, including investments from Japanese companies, education, and tourism. With over 300 Japanese firms already operating in Uttar Pradesh, the ambassador expressed interest in expanding investments beyond Noida. The meeting also set the stage for a high-level delegation from Uttar Pradesh to visit Japan soon, aiming to enhance youth employability through training programs. This engagement marks a significant step towards fostering a robust partnership between Japan and Uttar Pradesh.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 5, 2025, 10:12 IST

Diplomatic Engagement Between Japan and Uttar Pradesh

On Friday, the Japanese Ambassador to India, Ono Keiichi, paid a courtesy visit to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, where they discussed enhancing the relationship between Japan and the state.

Following their meeting, the ambassador shared with a news agency, "I had a productive discussion with the Chief Minister regarding ways to develop the ties between Japan and Uttar Pradesh just a few hours ago."

He noted, "Uttar Pradesh has a large population, particularly of talented youth, while Japan is facing an aging society. This creates a unique opportunity for collaboration, as we can align demand and supply effectively."

Ono mentioned that this was his first visit to Lucknow, during which they reached agreements on various aspects of cooperation, including cultural exchange, human resource development, and investments from Japanese companies in different sectors.

When asked about Japan's interest in business and investment opportunities in Uttar Pradesh, he revealed that over 300 Japanese firms are already operating in the state, especially in Noida, but they are keen to expand investments beyond that region.

He also highlighted education, particularly in Japanese language instruction, as a potential area for collaboration between Uttar Pradesh and Japan.

After their meeting at the Chief Minister's residence, Ambassador Keiichi shared insights on the agreements reached with Yogi Adityanath regarding cooperation in investment, technology, human resource development, and tourism on social media.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also expressed his views on social media, stating that the discussions focused on four key areas of partnership: technical cooperation, investment, youth skill development, and tourism.

According to an official statement, it was decided that a high-level delegation from the Uttar Pradesh government would soon visit Japan. Additionally, the state will participate in the World Expo in Osaka, scheduled for the last week of July.

Yogi Adityanath welcomed Japanese investments and technical collaboration in sectors such as electronics, green energy, and semiconductors. He emphasized that the state government aims to train youth in collaboration with Japan to enhance their employability.