Nagaland Chief Minister, Dr Neiphiu Rio has reaffirmed the deep-rooted historical and cultural bonds between India and Japan, describing them as “civilizational connections founded on shared democratic values, religious harmony, and a commitment to peace and humanity.”
Speaking during a series of high-level engagements in Tokyo, Dr Rio emphasised the unique affinity between the people of Nagaland and Japan, stating, “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.”
According to a DIPR report, Dr Rio expressed his gratitude to the Embassy of India in Tokyo, commending Ambassador H.E. Sibi George and his team for their proactive role in facilitating meaningful connections between Indian states and Japanese prefectures. He praised the Embassy’s outreach as “exemplary” and vital for enhancing Indo-Japanese ties.
It may be mentioned that Dr Neiphiu Rio arrived in Tokyo on July 5, accompanied by a high-level 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.
The delegation was warmly received by Ambassador, Sibi George and hosted at the Embassy of India for an official dinner and reception.
During the visit, a Memorandum of Understanding with Kochi Prefecture was signed focusing on human resource exchange, employment opportunities for Naga youth in Japan, capacity building, and agri-technology transfer.
In a meeting with Masayoshi Hamajima, Chairman and Founder of ARMS Incorporation, Dr. Rio discussed enhancing cooperation in human resource development and sports. An MoU between IDAN and ARMS was signed to facilitate long-term collaboration and engagement with local stakeholders in Nagaland.
Dr. Rio also highlighted the Centre of Excellence for Foreign Languages in Nagaland, which trains youth in Japanese to expand their global employability.
In discussions with Dr Nobuko Kayashima, Executive Director, Sasakava Peace Foundation (SPF), the two sides reviewed ongoing collaboration and explored future student and youth leadership exchanges. Dr. Kayashima extended an invitation to Dr. Rio to participate in upcoming policy dialogues in Japan.
Meetings were held with animation leaders including Erie Watanabe and Taeaki Tanaka of AXON and Toyonaga Hitomi, CEO of Eclat Animal. Famed artist, Toshiyuki Honda, creator of Doraemon, presented his artwork to the Chief Minister and expressed interest in collaborative projects in animation and creative education, especially with Nagaland.
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During the interaction with Japan-India Friendship Association (Nagano Prefecture), Jun Matsumoto, former MP from Nagano, along with officials Masaki Yoshida and Kenichi Kawani, expressed interest in agriculture sector cooperation and workforce exchange. Representatives from Nomura Securities Co. Ltd also participated and expressed readiness to explore investment avenues in Nagaland.
Agreements were exchanged in the areas of sports, establishment of an engineering college, student and policy-level exchanges, peace-building, and other multi-sectoral initiatives.
All meetings were attended by officials from the Embassy of India and supported by Government of India representatives.
In concluding remarks, Dr. Rio extended heartfelt appreciation to all Japanese stakeholders for their warmth and commitment towards Nagaland. He reiterated the State Government’s full support and willingness to build enduring partnerships across sectors.
He stated, “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.”
