japanese-delegation-visits-gujarat-to-strengthen-ties

A delegation of 18 members from Japan’s Shizuoka Prefecture recently visited Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel in Gandhinagar. Led by Atsuyuki Rachi, a member of the Shizuoka Prefectural Assembly and Secretary General of the India-Japan Friendship Parliamentary League, the group aimed to strengthen the long-standing relationship between the two regions.

 

During the meeting, the Japanese delegation highlighted the robust connections between Japan and Gujarat in various sectors. They emphasised the significance of Shizuoka's manufacturing industry, which is a key player in Japan's economic landscape. Shizuoka is renowned for its contributions to the automobile industry, housing giants like Suzuki, Yamaha, Honda, and Toyota.

 

Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel warmly welcomed the delegation. He praised the progress of India-Japan relations under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

 

Patel expressed confidence that Gujarat would continue to enhance these bilateral ties, emphasising that the "Make in India" initiative aims to produce environmentally friendly, world-class products with a commitment to quality and sustainability.

 

Patel assured the delegation of a supportive environment for Japanese industries in Gujarat. He stated that the government is proactive in addressing any challenges faced by industries to ensure the smooth progression of Indo-Japan relations. The Chief Minister also acknowledged Japan's significant role as a partner country in the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit.

 

Atsuyuki Rachi, head of the delegation, invited Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel to visit Japan and Shizuoka Prefecture. He mentioned that the Governor of Shizuoka is also interested in visiting India and Gujarat soon.

 

Rachi expressed readiness to sign a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to enhance trade and industrial relations, making the partnership between Gujarat and Shizuoka more productive.

 

This visit underscores the mutual interest in deepening cooperation across multiple sectors, including education, research, tourism, and culture, in addition to commercial exchanges. The commitment from both sides to foster these relationships bodes well for the future of India-Japan cooperation.