Bhubaneswar, May 19: The Consul General of Japan in Kolkata, Ishikawa Yoshihisa on Wednesday met Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi at Loka Seva Bhawan here to discuss ways for strengthening relationship between Japan and Odisha.
During the discussion, Chief Minister Majhi appreciated the Japanese support to various development projects in Odisha, and the expanding trade relationship. He expected Japan to expand its footprints in investment and industrialization efforts of Odisha, said a CMO release.
Japanese Consul General Ishikawa praised the historic ties between Odisha and Japan in art, culture, history and heritage. He said Japan is ready strengthen ties with Odisha in the socio-economic endeavours of the state, it stated.
During the discussion, it was decided that Japanese Prefecture (State) Tottori will partner with Odisha to function like sister states. High level delegations from both the states to visit each other. At a later date, Odisha Chief Minister and Tottori Governor will declare the partnership.
Besides, it was also decided that both Japan and Odisha will strengthen relationship in trade, investment, technology and tourism. The Buddhist circuit, and other natural places of Odisha will be key to expanding tourism prospects with Japan.
It was also decided some Japanese recruitment agencies will come to Odisha to enhance the scope for Odia youths to get placements in Japan.
Among others, Chief Secretary Anu Garg, Additional Chief Secretary (ACS), Industries Department, Hemant Sharma and ACS to the CM Saswat Mishra were present.