Did My Husband's Bonds with India Extend Beyond His Role as Japan's PM?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Explore Akie Abe's heartfelt reflections on her late husband Shinzo Abe's enduring relationship with India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Discover the cultural ties that unite these nations as showcased during a recent beauty pageant event in Tokyo.
Key Takeaways
- Shinzo Abe's legacy: His contributions significantly strengthened India-Japan ties.
- Personal connections: Bonds between leaders can foster deeper diplomatic relations.
- Cultural exchange: Events like these promote mutual understanding and respect.
- Women empowerment: Initiatives supporting women are crucial for societal growth.
- Global partnerships: Collaboration between nations can lead to positive change.
Tokyo, Sep 25 (NationPress) Reflecting on her late husband's profound affection for India and his camaraderie with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Akie Abe, the widow of former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, has highlighted that her husband's connections with India transcended his position as Prime Minister.
"My husband’s relationship with India extended far beyond his role as Prime Minister. With Prime Minister Narendra Modi, especially, they shared a unique connection, feeling each other’s warmth through mere smiles. There were numerous aspects my husband cherished and held dear. I aspire to carry these forward in my own meaningful way," Akie Abe expressed during her comments at an event in Tokyo on Wednesday evening.
Former PM Abe significantly contributed to strengthening India-Japan relations, elevating them to a Special Strategic and Global Partnership. His bond with PM Modi dates back many years, having known the Indian leader since his tenure as Gujarat Chief Minister.
During the inaugural beauty contest held on Wednesday, Akie Abe reflected on the strong ties between the two leaders and her husband’s enduring connection with India. The event, organized by Connect India Japan, celebrated the cultural and value-based ties between India and Japan. Chiharu Sakamoto from Japan was crowned as Ms India Japan 2025, while India's Shelley Singh was named the First Runner-Up.
Abe commended Nupur Tewari, the founder of Connect India Japan, for her support in launching an initiative that fosters a new era of people-to-people friendship, where cultural exchange intersects with women’s empowerment and entrepreneurship.
The evening included keynote speeches from R. Madhu Sudan, Charge d’Affaires at the Indian Embassy in Tokyo, and Kazuya Nakajo, Executive Advisor at the Japan External Trade Organisation (JETRO), both highlighting the importance of cultural diplomacy and personal interactions in enhancing bilateral relations.
The jury featured a diverse panel of global figures, including Tomohiko Taniguchi, Speechwriter and Special Advisor to the Late Prime Minister Shinzo Abe; Kazuya Nakajo, Executive Advisor at JETRO; James Angelus, President of the International Security Industry Council, Japan; Luma Naomi, Miss Grand Japan 2024; and Prof. Rajib Shaw from Keio University.
Cultural performances showcasing Indian classical dance and Japanese music enriched the event, followed by a gala dinner celebrating the friendship between the two nations.
Point of View
It is evident that the relationship between Japan and India, exemplified through Shinzo Abe's legacy, is significant for both nations. This narrative emphasizes the importance of cultural exchanges and personal relationships in diplomacy, reinforcing the notion that lasting bonds can transcend political boundaries, fostering mutual respect and collaboration.
NationPress
25/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Shinzo Abe's contribution to India-Japan relations?
Shinzo Abe played a crucial role in elevating India-Japan relations to the status of a Special Strategic and Global Partnership, enhancing diplomatic and cultural ties.
Who organized the beauty contest event in Tokyo?
The event was organized by Connect India Japan, aimed at fostering cultural exchange and promoting women’s empowerment.
What is the significance of the relationship between Shinzo Abe and Narendra Modi?
The relationship between Shinzo Abe and Narendra Modi exemplifies a deep personal and diplomatic bond, enhancing bilateral relations between Japan and India.
What cultural performances were featured at the event?
The event showcased Indian classical dance performances and Japanese music, celebrating the cultural ties between the two nations.
Who were the winners of the beauty contest?
Chiharu Sakamoto from Japan was crowned Ms India Japan 2025, while Shelley Singh from India was named the First Runner-Up.
