Japan‑India Relations Mark 75 Years as Minister Ayanami Tours West Bengal’s Shipyards and Heritage Sites

The 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Japan and India provided a timely backdrop for State Minister Dr. Kunimitsu Ayanami’s visit to Kolkata on September 15. Over four days, the minister toured key locations in West Bengal while holding talks with the state’s senior leadership.

Ayanami highlighted Japan’s interest in expanding its investment footprint in sectors such as electronics, pharmaceuticals and smart‑city infrastructure. He called on the West Bengal government to fast‑track clearances for existing Japanese enterprises and to design incentive packages for new projects.

The defence component of the visit centered on Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE). Senior GRSE officials presented ongoing shipbuilding programmes, and the minister explored possibilities for co‑development of frigates, submarines and unmanned maritime platforms, reinforcing a shared vision of a secure Indo‑Pacific.

A cultural stop at Netaji Bhawan offered a reminder of historical ties. A relative of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose explained the freedom fighter’s alliance with Japan during World War II, underscoring a legacy of cooperation that both nations aim to revive.

Concluding the talks, both delegations agreed to intensify collaboration in trade, tourism, defence and cultural exchange, positioning the 75‑year milestone as a launchpad for a new era of partnership.