The Consul General of Japan in Kolkata, Mr Ishikawa Yoshihisa, met Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi at Loka Seva Bhawan in Bhubaneswar on May 20 to discuss strengthening ties between Japan and Odisha.
Chief Minister Majhi appreciated Japan’s support for development projects in Odisha and urged Japanese investors to expand their footprint in the state’s industrialisation efforts. He highlighted opportunities in trade, business, and technology.
Mr Ishikawa praised the historic, cultural, and heritage links between Japan and Odisha. He expressed Japan’s readiness to deepen cooperation in socio-economic initiatives, tourism, and academic exchanges.
During the meeting, it was decided that the Japanese Prefecture of Tottori and Odisha will partner as sister states. High-level delegations from both sides will visit each other, and later, the Odisha Chief Minister and Tottori Governor will formally declare the partnership.
The two sides agreed to strengthen collaboration in trade, investment, technology, and tourism. The Buddhist circuit and Odisha’s natural attractions will be promoted to boost tourism prospects with Japan. Japanese recruitment agencies will also set up operations in Odisha to provide opportunities for Odia youths to secure placements in Japan.
Chief Secretary Anu Garg, ACS Industries Hemant Sharma, and ACS to CM Saswat Mishra attended the meeting.
