In a private meeting with his Japanese counterpart Fumio Kishida on Tuesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sincere condolences on the passing of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.
To attend Abe’s state funeral, Prime Minister Modi arrived in Japan on Tuesday morning. He praised Abe for his support of India-Japan relations and for helping to conceptualise the idea of an Indo-Pacific area that is free, open, and inclusive.
“The discussion between the two presidents on further developing their bilateral ties was fruitful. They also spoke about a variety of local and international concerns, “According to a statement from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
Both leaders reaffirmed their dedication to advancing the India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership and cooperating in the area and with other international organisations.
As scores of international dignitaries are scheduled to attend the official burial of former PM Abe, who was killed in July, there are increased security precautions in Japan as PM Modi landed there today.
The state funeral is likely to draw attendees from over 100 nations, including more than 20 heads of state and governments.
Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra stated on Monday that PM Modi has the chance to pay tribute to his close friend and a supporter of India-Japan relations by going to Japan.
The foreign secretary stated during a special briefing that “this visit by PM Modi is a chance for him to honour the memory of former PM Abe, who he regarded a good friend and a tremendous promoter of the India-Japan friendship.”
He asserted that Abe made important contributions to strengthening India-Japan ties, transforming what had previously been essentially an economic connection into a complete, strategic alliance that was crucial for the security of the two nations as well as the wider region.
“The foundation for the development of the Indo-Pacific region as a modern political, geopolitical, and economic reality was created by his infamous “Confluence of Two Seas” speech in the Indian Parliament in 2007. In recognition of Abe’s contribution to India-Japan ties, the prestigious Padma Vibhushan was bestowed upon him in 2021, “said Kwatra.
Following PM Modi’s trip to Japan for the Quad Leaders’ Summit in May of this year, PM Kishida travelled to India for the India-Japan Summit meeting in March.
The two presidents’ dedication to strengthening India-Japan relations, notably in establishing a post-pandemic regional and international order, was highlighted by these encounters. The diplomatic ties between India and Japan have been in existence for 70 years this year.
Read more: PM Modi extends heartfelt condolences to his “dear friend Abe San”
