India and Japan Forge Deeper Bonds at Inaugural Rising Sun Conclave in New Delhi

New Delhi:  The inaugural Rising Sun Conclave was held in New Delhi, marking a historic milestone in the longstanding relationship between India and Japan. This premier event, celebrated for its grandeur and significance, underscored the deep-rooted friendship and cooperation that have flourished between the two nations over centuries.

The conclave was inaugurated with a ceremonial lamp lighting by the Honorable Mrs. Meenakshi Lekhi, Union Minister of State for External Affairs & Culture. Mrs. Lekhi’s keynote address highlighted the rich tapestry of historical and cultural exchanges that have solidified the bond between India and Japan, emphasizing the mutual respect and admiration that underpin this unique relationship.

Distinguished panelists including Major General Gagan Deep Bakshi, Mr. Anand Ranganathan, Mr. Tehseen Poonawalla and Mr. Rahul Shivshankar, delved into the complexities of geopolitical dynamics, shedding light on the transition from spiritual to geo-political perspectives.

The economic ties between India and Japan took center stage, with sessions featuring eminent speakers such as Mr. Takashi Suzuki, Mr. Rajesh U. Pandya, and Mr. Tohru Tsuruta. These discussions explored the vast potential for collaboration and growth in global trade, reaffirming the commitment of both nations to fostering economic prosperity.

A highlight of the event was a mesmerizing Bharatanatyam performance by Ms. Utaha Komaki, a talented Japanese dancer. This performance symbolized the cultural fusion and mutual empathy that characterize the India Japan relationship, captivating the audience with its beauty and grace.

The conclave further celebrated the cultural synergy between India and Japan through discussions on soft power dynamics. Esteemed panelists, including Mr. Sandeep Marwah, Dr. Rishi Mohan Bhatnagar, and Mr. Harinder S. Sikka, emphasized the role of cultural exchange in shaping perceptions and building a foundation of mutual understanding.

An awards ceremony recognized outstanding contributions to strengthening bilateral relations, with honorees across various categories:

• Cultural Integration Award: Dr. Hiroyuki Sato
• Promotion of Trade Relations Award: Mrs. Geetanjali Vikram Kirloskar
• Fostering Bilateral Relations Award: Former Ambassador Mr. Arjun G Asrani

The Rising Sun Conclave concluded with a networking dinner and a cultural program by the J-Hind group, alongside a musical ensemble from Japan. This finale underscored the unity, collaboration, and friendship that define the India Japan partnership.

‘Connect India Japan’ serves as the gateway to the dynamic and ever-evolving relationship between India and Japan. Through its initiatives and events, ‘Connect India Japan’ aims to bridge the geographical gap between the two nations and showcase the rich tapestry of connections that bind them together.

‘The Rising Sun Conclave‘ is an annual event presented by ‘Connect India Japan,’ bringing together dignitaries, industry leaders, and passionate individuals from India and Japan to celebrate their shared aspirations, foster collaboration, and strengthen bilateral ties across various realms including diplomacy, culture, trade, defense, and innovation.

Organized by Connect India Japan, the Rising Sun Conclave is an annual event that assembles dignitaries, industry leaders, and enthusiasts from both countries to celebrate shared goals, foster collaboration, and bolster bilateral ties across diplomacy, culture, trade, defense, and innovation. Connect India Japan, founded by Ms. Nupur Tewari, known as the unofficial ambassador of India to Japan, serves as a pivotal platform for bridging the geographical and cultural distances between these two great nations.