About Us

I have recently assumed office as the 10th Chairman of the Japan-India Association, a Public Interest Incorporated Foundation, succeeding former Chairman Yoshihide Suga.

Since its establishment in 1903, the Japan-India Association has carried out private-sector international exchange on behalf of our nation for 123 years, making it the oldest international exchange organisation in Japan. Following in the footsteps of distinguished predecessors who devoted themselves wholeheartedly to deepening Japan-India relations, namely former Prime Ministers Yoshiro Mori, Shinzo Abe and Yoshihide Suga, I am deeply honoured to have been entrusted with the important responsibility of steering this organisation with its proud tradition. At the same time, I am keenly aware of the weight of this responsibility.

India’s importance has been growing ever more in recent years, geopolitically, politically and economically. Further strengthening the “Special Strategic and Global Partnership” between Japan and India, two nations sharing universal values, goes beyond mere bilateral cooperation; it serves as a firm foundation supporting peace and stability in the international community. I am also convinced that it will greatly serve Japan’s national interests.

As Minister for Foreign Affairs and as Prime Minister, I engaged in sincere dialogue with Prime Minister Modi and many other leaders in Indian politics and business. Making the most of the relationships of trust built through these exchanges, I intend to devote all my efforts to developing Japan-India relations in an even more multilayered manner, guided by the vision of a “Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP)”.

The activities of the Japan-India Association are sustained by the strong support of each and every one of our corporate and individual members. I hope to meet with you as often as possible to deepen our exchanges and to hear directly about your enthusiasm and needs on the ground.
Through dialogue with all of you, and while honouring our traditions, I will further advance the following initiatives:

•Supporting the strategic partnership: Promoting economic and investment activities through public-private collaboration.
•Exchange among the next generation: Deepening mutual understanding among young leaders and students who will shape the future of both countries.
•Expanding cultural and intellectual exchange: Maintaining and developing the deep trust rooted in our shared history.

At this time, when the world stands at a historic turning point, the unity of Japan and India is a driving force for jointly opening up a new era. Building upon the solid foundation laid by my predecessors, I am determined to fulfil the mission expected of me as the new Chairman.

I sincerely ask for your continued support and cooperation.

Chairman Fumio Kishida