PM Modi Invites Japan Prefectures to Co-Pilot Trade, Tech Ties

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has taken a significant step in deepening India-Japan relations by inviting Japan’s prefectures to co-pilot trade, technology, and innovation ties with Indian states.

PM Modi Invites Japan Prefectures to Co-Pilot Trade

During his recent visit to Japan, PM Modi emphasized the importance of sub-national collaboration through the newly launched State-Prefecture Partnership Initiative, aimed at fostering closer cooperation beyond traditional central government diplomacy.

Strengthening Sub-National Cooperation

In a landmark meeting with governors of 16 Japanese prefectures, PM Modi spotlighted the crucial role that these local regions, known for their prowess in technology, manufacturing, and innovation, can play alongside Indian states in shaping the future of bilateral cooperation.

This initiative marks a strategic shift towards encouraging decentralized ties, allowing Indian states and Japanese prefectures to leverage their unique strengths for mutual growth.

Prime Minister Modi highlighted, “Let India’s states and Japan’s prefectures co-pilot our shared progress,” signaling a move towards more localized and diversified partnerships.

He invited delegations from at least three Indian states and three Japanese prefectures to exchange visits annually to build robust connections and foster new opportunities in trade, technology, and culture.

The State-Prefecture Partnership Initiative

Launched at the 15th India-Japan Annual Summit, the State-Prefecture Partnership Initiative aims to institutionalize sustained cooperation between Indian states and Japanese prefectures in various sectors.

Beyond trade and technology, this initiative focuses on innovation, manufacturing, next-generation infrastructure, mobility, start-ups, and small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

Each Japanese prefecture brings its own economic and technological advantages, matched by the diverse capabilities of Indian states.

business trade

PM Modi underscored the complementary nature of this relationship, emphasizing that the vibrant start-up ecosystems and MSMEs in India’s smaller towns can thrive by collaborating with Japan’s innovation hubs.

Existing Partnerships and Future Opportunities

Several Indian states already have active partnerships with Japanese prefectures. Examples include Gujarat with Shizuoka, Uttar Pradesh with Yamanashi, Maharashtra with Wakayama, Andhra Pradesh with Toyama, and Tamil Nadu with Ehime.

PM Modi expressed the vision to move these partnerships from paper agreements to people-centric and prosperity-driven collaborations.

The Prime Minister urged both Indian and Japanese sub-national leaders to make these ties actionable, citing the need for cooperation in sectors like semiconductors, manufacturing, artificial intelligence, and advanced tech.

The recent visit to Tokyo Electron Miyagi Ltd, a key semiconductor plant in Japan, underscored this focus, showcasing the potential for India-Japan collaboration in semiconductor technology and supply chains.

Importance of People-to-People and Cultural Ties

PM Modi acknowledged the deep-rooted civilizational and cultural connections between India and Japan, dating back thousands of years, rooted in shared values and mutual respect. He stressed that enhancing people-to-people exchanges, tourism, education, and youth skill programs is essential to sustaining long-term bilateral growth.

The State-Prefecture Partnership Initiative is designed not only to strengthen economic and technological cooperation but also to enhance cultural and social linkages, paving the way for a more inclusive and diverse India-Japan relationship.

Vision for a Shared Future

The Indian Prime Minister emphasized that the strength of India-Japan ties lies in localized, personalized partnerships rather than just central government agreements.

By encouraging Indian states and Japanese prefectures to co-pilot their progress, Modi envisions a future where innovation, technology, and manufacturing become key drivers of economic growth for both nations.

The collaboration between India’s expanding tech and start-up sectors and Japan’s high-tech manufacturing capabilities promises a resilient and dynamic partnership.

As Modi articulated, “If these vibrant ecosystems of Japan and India come together — ideas will flow, innovation will grow, and opportunities will unfold.”

Conclusion

PM Modi’s call to action for greater cooperation between Indian states and Japan’s prefectures marks a forward-thinking approach to international diplomacy and economic partnership.

The State-Prefecture Partnership Initiative envisions a future where decentralized collaborations drive trade, technology, and cultural connections, paving the way for sustained prosperity and innovation on both sides.