How is Japan's ambassador strengthening ties with Gujarat CM?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Japan's Ambassador to India, Keiichi Ono, met with Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel to discuss future investments, particularly in the semiconductor sector at Dholera. This meeting underscores the long-standing friendship between Japan and Gujarat, marking a significant step towards enhancing bilateral economic relations.
Key Takeaways
- Japan and Gujarat celebrate 50 years of diplomatic friendship.
- Ambassador Ono appreciates support for Japanese companies in Gujarat.
- Focus on semiconductor investments at Dholera SIR.
- Gujarat prioritizes infrastructure for the semiconductor sector.
- Japan aims to deepen cultural and commercial ties with Gujarat.
Gandhinagar, July 11 (NationPress) Keiichi Ono, the Ambassador of Japan to India, made a courtesy visit to Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel in Gandhinagar on Friday, alongside Koyoko Hokugo, Japan's Economic and Development Affairs Minister.
This meeting marked the conclusion of Ambassador Ono's three-day journey to Gujarat, which featured high-level discussions with over 150 industrialists in Ahmedabad, as well as a tour of the Dholera Special Investment Region (SIR).
During their discussion, Ambassador Ono expressed gratitude for the support the Gujarat government has shown to the more than 350 Japanese firms currently operating within the state.
He emphasized Japan's commitment to further enhancing ties with Gujarat as both countries celebrate 50 years of diplomatic relations.
Chief Minister Patel warmly welcomed the Japanese Ambassador, stating that “Gujarat is like a second home for Japan”. He pointed out the establishment of two Japanese townships, an increasing number of Japanese restaurants and industries, and Japan's ongoing participation in the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summits.
CM Patel remarked that the Indo-Japan Annual Summit of 2017, which was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, has resulted in the successful implementation of all signed MoUs.
The discussions mainly revolved around Japan's rising interest in the semiconductor industry.
Ambassador Ono noted that multiple Japanese companies are eager to invest in semiconductor manufacturing at Dholera SIR, leveraging Japan's technological strengths.
He requested that the Gujarat government improve both industrial and social infrastructure alongside human resource development to facilitate this sector's expansion.
In reply, CM Patel confirmed that Gujarat prioritizes the semiconductor sector and is dedicated to providing top-notch infrastructure within set timelines.
He also welcomed Japan’s initiative to conduct a survey through Mizuho Bank to establish a strong ecosystem for semiconductor industries in Dholera as well as Japan’s own semiconductor park.
The Chief Minister assured complete cooperation from state departments to assist with the study.
Ambassador Ono additionally highlighted Japan's interest in electric vehicle manufacturing in Gujarat and underscored the necessity of enhancing collaboration on the Ahmedabad-Mumbai High-Speed Rail (Bullet Train) Corridor.
He concluded by reiterating Japan's wish to deepen commercial, industrial, and cultural ties with Gujarat to strengthen trilateral relations among Japan, India, and the state of Gujarat.
Present at the meeting were Additional Chief Secretary M.K. Das, Principal Secretary (Industries) Mamta Verma, Additional Principal Secretary Avantika Singh, and Honourary Consul General of Japan in Gujarat Mukesh Patel.
Point of View
This meeting between Japan's Ambassador and Gujarat's Chief Minister reflects the growing importance of international partnerships in driving economic growth. Strengthening ties with Japan, especially in the high-tech sector, aligns with India's vision of enhancing its industrial capabilities, thereby benefiting the nation as a whole.
NationPress
03/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the purpose of Japan's ambassador visit to Gujarat?
The visit aimed to strengthen bilateral ties and discuss potential investments, particularly in the semiconductor sector.
How many Japanese companies operate in Gujarat?
Currently, over 350 Japanese companies are operating in Gujarat.
What investment sector was a focus during the meeting?
The meeting primarily focused on investments in the semiconductor industry.
What is the significance of the Indo-Japan Annual Summit?
The Indo-Japan Annual Summit of 2017 has been pivotal in executing various signed Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) between the two nations.
What infrastructure improvements did the ambassador request?
Ambassador Ono requested enhancements in industrial and social infrastructure and human resource development facilities to support semiconductor industry growth.
