Chief Minister of Nagaland, Dr Neiphiu Rio, has reaffirmed the “deep-rooted historical and cultural bonds” between India and Japan during a high-level visit to Tokyo, describing the Indo-Japanese relationship as “civilizational connections founded on shared democratic values, religious harmony, and a commitment to peace and humanity.”
The visit, which commenced on July 5, saw the Chief Minister lead a high-powered delegation comprising Abu Metha, Advisor to the Chief Minister and Chairman of the Investment & Development Authority of Nagaland (IDAN), and Hekani Jakhalu, Advisor, Industries & Commerce.
Addressing a series of meetings and official engagements, Dr Rio highlighted the unique affinity between the people of Nagaland and Japan: “Our shared history and experiences have laid the foundation for a special bond. Today, we are not only remembering the past—we are collaborating to shape a peaceful and progressive future for our youth and future generations.”
The Chief Minister extended special thanks to the Embassy of India in Tokyo for hosting the delegation and facilitating strategic linkages. He praised Ambassador H.E. Sibi George and his team for their “exemplary” efforts in “enhancing Indo-Japanese ties and building meaningful connections between Indian states and Japanese prefectures.”
Key outcomes of the visit
MoU with Kochi Prefecture: A major highlight was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Kochi Prefecture, focusing on human resource exchange, employment for Naga youth in Japan, agri-technology transfer, and capacity building.
MoU with ARMS Incorporation: In a meeting with Masayoshi Hamajima, Founder of ARMS Incorporation, the Chief Minister signed an MoU through IDAN to promote long-term cooperation in human resource development and sports engagement.
Discussions with Sasakawa Peace Foundation (SPF): Dr Rio held productive discussions with Dr Nobuko Kayashima, Executive Director of SPF, reviewing ongoing collaboration and exploring youth leadership exchanges. Dr Kayashima invited Dr Rio to upcoming policy dialogues in Japan.
Cultural Diplomacy and Animation Industry Engagement: The delegation met animation giants including Erie Watanabe, Taeaki Tanaka (AXON), and Toyonaga Hitomi (Eclat Animal). Famed artist Toshiyuki Honda, creator of Doraemon, presented a painting to the CM and expressed interest in collaborative creative education projects in Nagaland.
Partnership with Japan-India Friendship Association (Nagano): Former MP Jun Matsumoto and other officials expressed strong interest in cooperation in agriculture and workforce exchange.
Representatives from Nomura Securities also explored investment possibilities in Nagaland.
Additional Letters of Intent (LoIs): Agreements were exchanged in diverse areas including the establishment of an engineering college, student exchange programmes, sports, peace-building, and policy-level collaboration.
Dr Rio also spotlighted the Centre of Excellence for Foreign Languages in Nagaland that trains youth in Japanese to enhance global employability.
“Japan will always find a special partner in Nagaland”
The Chief Minister extended “heartfelt appreciation to all Japanese stakeholders for their warmth and commitment towards Nagaland,” adding that the State Government stands ready to build enduring partnerships.
“Nagaland is ready to engage globally. Our youth are eager, our people are capable, and our government is committed to forging meaningful, future-oriented partnerships. Japan will always find a special partner in Nagaland,” he said.
All meetings were attended and facilitated by officials from the Embassy of India and supported by the Government of India, signalling a renewed diplomatic and development thrust between Nagaland and Japan.