What Happened When PM Modi Met Governors of 16 Japanese Prefectures in Tokyo?
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Synopsis
In an impactful meeting in Tokyo, PM Modi connected with the Governors of 16 Japanese prefectures to elevate India-Japan ties. The discussions revolved around fostering collaboration in technology, innovation, and start-up ecosystems, setting the stage for a dynamic partnership that promises mutual growth and opportunities.
Key Takeaways
- Strengthened bilateral ties between India and Japan.
- Launch of an AI initiative for collaboration in technology.
- Focus on regional partnerships through the State-Prefecture Partnership Initiative.
- Emphasis on supporting start-ups and SMEs in both nations.
- Plans for the AI Impact Summit in February 2026.
Tokyo, Aug 30 (NationPress) During his recent trip to Tokyo, Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged with the Governors of 16 Japanese prefectures, reinforcing India’s dedication to enhancing bilateral relations with Japan through regional and grassroots initiatives.
This meeting highlighted the significance of the State-Prefecture Partnership Initiative, designed to cultivate collaboration between Indian states and Japanese prefectures across various strategic sectors.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Saturday shed light on the meeting's outcomes, with MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal sharing pivotal information through the social media platform X.
“Advancing the robust India-Japan relations. PM @narendramodi met with the Governors of 16 prefectures in Tokyo. He stressed the potential of collaboration between states and prefectures, urging action under the State-Prefecture Partnership Initiative, which was launched during the 15th Annual Summit for mutual progress. Discussions centered on deepening partnerships between Indian states and Japanese prefectures in technology, innovation, investment, skills, start-ups, and SMEs,” Randhir Jaiswal stated on X.
In the discussions, Prime Minister Modi highlighted the necessity of establishing direct connections between Indian states and Japanese regions, particularly in areas like technology, innovation, investment, skill development, start-ups, and small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
On Friday, India and Japan unveiled an Artificial Intelligence (AI) initiative aimed at enhancing collaboration in Large Language Models (LLMs), training, capacity building, and providing support for businesses and start-ups to create a reliable AI ecosystem.
The two countries also formalized a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for Digital Partnership 2.0 during Prime Minister Modi’s ongoing visit to Tokyo.
Prime Minister Modi extended an invitation to Prime Minister Ishiba to participate in the AI Impact Summit, set to take place in India in February 2026. Furthermore, both Prime Ministers emphasized the need to support start-ups and agreed to promote activities of start-ups from both nations in India, including through the Japan-India Startup Support Initiative (JISSI).
Earlier, PM Modi addressed the India-Japan Business Forum, stating that Japan's technology combined with India's talent has the potential to ignite the tech revolution of this century.
Point of View
This meeting not only signifies a strong commitment towards enhancing India-Japan relations but also reflects a strategic approach to foster regional partnerships. The initiatives discussed are poised to significantly benefit both nations, especially in sectors like technology and start-ups, aligning with the global trends of collaboration and innovation. The essence of this interaction underlines the importance of grassroots connections in achieving substantial progress.
NationPress
30/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the main focus of PM Modi's meeting with the Japanese Governors?
The primary focus was to strengthen bilateral ties through the State-Prefecture Partnership Initiative, emphasizing collaboration in technology, innovation, investment, and support for start-ups.
What initiatives were announced during the meeting?
An Artificial Intelligence initiative was launched to enhance collaboration, along with a Memorandum of Understanding for Digital Partnership 2.0.
How do the discussions benefit India and Japan?
The discussions aim to create direct linkages between Indian states and Japanese regions, fostering growth in technology, innovation, and the start-up ecosystem.
What is the significance of the State-Prefecture Partnership Initiative?
This initiative is crucial for fostering cooperation and strategic partnerships between Indian states and Japanese prefectures, enhancing mutual growth opportunities.
When is the AI Impact Summit scheduled?
The AI Impact Summit is scheduled to take place in India in February 2026.
