Odisha and Japan form partnership to promote sustainable industrial growth

Odisha and Japan formed a partnership to provide sustainable growth for the citizens of the state through various projects at the ‘Make in Odisha Conclave 2018’. The foundations for this partnership were laid at a Japan Seminar held as part of the conclave, according to reports.

“We appreciate the interest shown by Odisha to work with Japan. Many state organisations have visited Japan to highlight opportunities, which they can offer to its companies,” said Kenji Hiramatsu, Japanese Ambassador to India.

The event was also attended by key dignitaries and representatives from Japanese organisations such as Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Japan External Trade Organisation (JETRO), Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry in India (JCCII) and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries.

“Japan is the eastern gateway to Asia, and Odisha is the eastern gateway to India. Odisha is in advanced discussions with Japanese industries who wish to invest in the state,” said R Balakrishnan, Additional Chief Secretary and Development Commissioner, Odisha. “We are developing modern infrastructure for them to setup their establishments here. We have identified 665 acres of land for this, located just 20 kilometers from Bhubaneswar,” he said.

The event had two panel discussions, which covered topics such as the experience of Japanese organisations in Odisha and human skill development in the state. In the first panel, the skill force available in food processing, richness of natural resources, and aspiring women workforces were discussed. The second panel had representatives from Japan Foundation and ASMACS discuss how they have assisted skill development in India.