Japan one of India’s most trusted friends in strategic, economic spheres: PM Modi

Referring to the Rudraksh centre as the result of creativity and dynamism, he said the facility showed a strong connection between India and Japan.

Modi recollected how his Japanese counterpart was the Chief Cabinet Secretary when the foundation stone of the project was laid in 2015 and had remained personally involved with the project.

Modi said the project represented India-Japan relationship as well as scope for future cooperation and added that projects like Rudraksh in Varanasi and Zen Garden in Ahmedabad symbolised the relationship. He referred to Japan as one of India’s most trusted friends today in both strategic and economic spheres. He said the centre would be a cultural hub and a medium to unite different people.

Meanwhile, in the video message, PM Suga said, “I hope that this centre will be used as a stage to showcase close Japan-India cooperation through hosting international conferences and cultural and art events and become a new symbol of friendship between Japan and India.”