Japan Prime Minister to be the chief guest in Indian Republic day parade for the first time

Commenting on Japan Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s upcoming visit to India, Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Syed Akbaruddin on Thursday said that his acceptance of the offer to be the chief guest on Republic Day, for the first time in history, despite his busy schedule is indicative of the prospering relations between the two countries

“For the first time in the history of India, Japanese Prime minister will be the chief guest in Republic Day parade. Despite his busy schedule, the acceptance of the offer to be the chief guest on Republic day by Japan’s prime minister is enough to understand the prospering relations between the two countries,” said Akbaruddin

“We are expanding defence corporations with Japan. The defence ministers have a regular dialogue and the three priorities for India right now are Japanese technology, Japanese investment in India, and Japanese modern management practices,” he said

Joint Secretary (East Asia), Ministry of External Affairs, Gautam Bambawale said that there was a possibility of purchase of an amphibian aircraft by India from Japan

“We have been discussing with Japan the possibility purchase of an amphibian aircraft called the US 2, and a joint working group had been formed in May 2013 which had its first meeting in Delhi and is likely to meet again this year,” he said

“It could take time as the terms and conditions take time to work out and therefore I would not give any specific time frame,” he added

“We are aware that in area in nuclear technology there are certain advantages which rest with Japan. India is soliciting an international cooperation and it is very important for Japan to be a partner. Therefore we are looking forward to, and negotiating on the peaceful use of nuclear energy with Japan,” he said.