Japan's Foreign Affairs Minister Strengthens Ties with India in Kolkata
Strengthening Japan-India Relations
Japan's state minister of foreign affairs Dr. Kunimitsu Ayano in Kolkata
(Photo: @MofaJapan_en/X)
Tokyo/New Delhi, Sep 15: From September 10 to 13, Dr. Kunimitsu Ayano, Japan’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs, visited Kolkata and other regions in West Bengal. Her agenda included discussions with senior officials from the state government aimed at enhancing Japan-India relations, boosting Japanese investments in the region, and fostering people-to-people interactions, as reported by Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
During her stay, Kunimitsu extended her congratulations to the West Bengal government for the establishment of the new administration in May. The discussions revolved around the “various potential of Japan-India relations,” with both parties agreeing to collaborate in strengthening bilateral ties as they approach the 75th anniversary of their diplomatic relations.
The minister emphasized the status of Japanese enterprises in West Bengal and sought the state’s assistance in promoting further investments from Japan.
“State Minister KUNIMITSU outlined the current landscape for Japanese businesses in West Bengal and requested cooperation from the Minister to enhance investment opportunities,” stated the Japanese foreign ministry.
Additionally, both sides committed to enhancing cooperation to facilitate exchanges among people, particularly in business and tourism sectors.
As part of her four-day itinerary, Kunimitsu toured Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Ltd. (GRSE), a shipyard operated by the Ministry of Defence, Government of India. She engaged with the executive management to discuss advancing defense collaboration between Japan and India.
This visit to GRSE is particularly significant as both nations strive to bolster cooperation in defense and maritime domains. The discussions were centered on enhancing defense partnerships.
Kunimitsu also visited Netaji Bhawan, a museum dedicated to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, a prominent figure in India's independence movement who had strong ties with Japan. During her visit, a relative of Bose elaborated on the Indian independence struggle and his connections with Japan.
The Japanese foreign ministry noted that the State Minister explored various other locations in West Bengal during her visit.
This trip coincides with the upcoming 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Japan, presenting a chance for both nations to seek deeper cooperation in economic, defense, tourism, and cultural fields.
The discussions held in Kolkata highlight Japan’s commitment to enhancing its economic ties with West Bengal, particularly by promoting increased participation and investment from Japanese firms and fostering exchanges between the two regions.