EVENTS

Abstract

The presentation will deliberate upon recent developments in the relations between India and Japan in the context of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s consistent efforts for enhancing relations with India since he assumed charge for the second time. A number of high level visits between the two countries took place over last one year. The first-ever visit to India by the Japanese Emperor and the Empress in December 2013 as well as Abe’s current visit during which he will attend the Republic Day celebration as the chief guest, further indicates closer interactions between the two countries in economic, political, strategic and cultural spheres.  

About the Speaker

Amb. Arjun Asrani joined the Indian Foreign Service in 1957 and remained a career diplomat for 35 years until 1992. He had three assignments in Japan ranging from Third Secretary to Ambassador between 1988 and 1992. He also dealt with Japanese ODA when he was posted on a deputation at the Ministry of Finance. After his retirement, Amb. Asrani served at various capacities in banking and financial sectors and as a Consultant to the Expenditure Reforms Commission. He also served as a government appointed member of the India – Japan Joint Study Group and National Security Advisory Board. At present he is Chairman of Japan-India Partnership Forum (based in FICCI), Trustee of a charitable foundation (IndusInd Foundation) and Guest Faculty of Foreign Service Institute of the Ministry of External Affairs. In November 2004, Amb. Asrani was conferred the “Grand Cordon of the order of Rising Sun” award by the Emperor of Japan.