MoUs Signed on Youth, Agri-Tech, Creative Industry
Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio, who is currently on a visit to Japan, reaffirmed the deep-rooted historical and cultural ties between India and Japan, calling them “civilisational connections founded on shared democratic values, religious harmony and commitment to peace and humanity.”
According to a statement issued by IDAN media and communication cell, Rio, who is leading a high-level delegation from Nagaland, highlighted the long-standing bonds between the people of Nagaland and Japan during a series of engagements in Tokyo. “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,” Rio said.
The chief minister thanked the Indian Embassy in Tokyo, especially Ambassador Sibi George and his team, for facilitating meaningful connections and lauded their proactive outreach in enhancing Indo-Japanese cooperation.
During the visit, several significant meetings and agreements were made which included– MoU with Kochi Prefecture, focused on human resource exchange, employment opportunities for Naga youth in Japan, capacity building, and agri-tech transfer.
MoU with ARMS Incorporation: Signed between IDAN and ARMS chairman Masayoshi Hamajima to promote cooperation in human resource development and sports. Rio also emphasized the role of the Centre of Excellence for Foreign Languages in Nagaland in training youth in Japanese to expand global employability.
Meeting with Sasakawa Peace Foundation (SPF): In discussions with SPF executive director Dr. Nobuko Kayashima, both sides explored youth and student exchange programmes and upcoming policy dialogues. Dr. Kayashima extended an invitation to Rio to participate in future events.
Engagement with creative industry leaders: Meetings were held with top animation leaders including Erie Watanabe, Taeaki Tanaka (AXON), and Toyonaga Hitomi (Eclat Animal). Notably, famed artist Toshiyuki Honda, creator of Doraemon, presented his artwork to Rio and expressed interest in collaborations in animation and creative education, especially with Nagaland.
Japan-India Friendship Association (Nagano): Former MP Jun Matsumoto and officials Masaki Yoshida and Kenichi Kawani discussed agricultural and workforce exchange. Representatives from Nomura Securities Co. Ltd also expressed investment interest in Nagaland.
Additional Letters of Intent (LoIs): These covered areas such as sports, establishment of an engineering college, student and policy-level exchanges, and multi-sectoral and peace-building initiatives.
All engagements were attended and supported by the Embassy of India and Government of India representatives.
Rio extended his appreciation to the Japanese stakeholders for their hospitality and reiterated the Nagaland government’s willingness to build long-term, multi-sectoral 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,” the chief minister stated.