Odisha is set to form a significant “sister state” alliance with Japan’s Tottori Prefecture, aiming to boost cooperation in trade, investment, technology, tourism, and skill development. The decision emerged from a meeting between the Consul General of Japan in Kolkata, Ishikawa Yoshihisa, and Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi at Loka Seva Bhawan. Chief Minister Majhi expressed gratitude for Japan’s support and welcomed the proposed partnership, focusing on enhancing institutional collaboration and creating more opportunities for youth employment and tourism.
Chief Minister Majhi and the Consul General discussed ways to strengthen the bond between Japan and Odisha, emphasizing Japan’s backing for various development projects and the growing trade ties. Japan’s Consul General highlighted the longstanding cultural and historical connections between Odisha and Japan, expressing readiness to bolster socio-economic cooperation with the state. The meeting concluded with the decision for Tottori Prefecture and Odisha to become sister states, with plans for high-level delegations to visit each other and formalize the partnership in the future.
The discussions also outlined intentions to enhance trade, investment, technology, and tourism relations between Japan and Odisha, with a focus on leveraging Odisha’s Buddhist circuit and natural attractions to attract Japanese tourists. Additionally, Japanese recruitment agencies will collaborate with Odisha to facilitate job placements for local youths in Japan, enhancing employment prospects for the Odia community.
