CM-led delegation explores strategic ties with Japan

A high-level delegation from Nagaland, led by chief minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio, is currently in Japan on an official mission aimed at fostering collaborations across government, industry, and civil society. The visit seeks to deepen bilateral ties and unlock developmental opportunities for the northeastern Indian state.
In a statement, Investment & Development Authority of Nagaland (IDAN) informed that the delegation comprised of key officials including its chairman Abu Metha; Hekani Jakhalu, advisor for Industries and Commerce (I&C); Kumar Ramnikant, commissioner & secretary of I&C; and other senior officers. Prior to the chief minister’s arrival, IDAN and I&C department initiated a series of high-level meetings in Tokyo, led by Metha and Jakhalu.
These meetings, grounded in the shared historical legacy and enduring cultural connections between Japan and Nagaland particularly through shared World War II heritage and ongoing people-to-people engagements, explored avenues for cooperation with organisations such as Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha (NYK Line), the Sasakawa Peace Foundation (SPF), Konnekt Asia, and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
Focus areas included human resource development across agriculture, hospitality, healthcare, arts and culture, tourism, sports, and film. According to IDAN, SPF shared details about ongoing initiatives in India’s North Eastern region, emphasising people-to-people relations, peacebuilding, and Track Two diplomacy. Highlighting Nagaland’s World War II legacy, Metha underscored the importance of converting historical memory into platforms for peace and development.
JICA reportedly expressed a keen interest in expanding human resource exchange programs by aligning Japanese industrial needs with India’s skilled youth. The ongoing work of JICA in Nagaland was acknowledged, with prospects of broader collaboration under discussion.
Engagements with NYK Line revolved around the company’s contributions to Nagaland and possibilities for joint ventures in the services and hospitality sector, aimed at youth employment and skill-building.
The delegation also traveled to Kochi Prefecture, where officials held detailed talks on technology transfer, skill enhancement, and collaboration in sectors such as food processing and agriculture. Discussions included the potential signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Nagaland and the Kochi Prefecture.
IDAN noted that Nagaland’s strong literacy rates, widespread English proficiency, and vibrant cultural ecosystem position it well for global partnerships. The state government also presented its new Industrial Policy, which offers a framework for investment and sustainable development.
These initial meetings, IDAN said, lay the groundwork for more formalized engagements during the CM’s visit.