Strengthening Maharashtra-Japan Ties: Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis’ Upcoming Visit
Mumbai, 12th August 2023: In response to an invitation from the Japanese government, Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis is set to embark on a significant five-day visit to Japan, commencing on August 20. This diplomatic venture aims to forge a new chapter in the enduring friendship between Maharashtra and Japan, with a focus on fostering collaboration across multiple sectors.
The tour holds particular importance as it seeks to facilitate the initiation of several crucial projects, Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs), and cooperative endeavors spanning industry, infrastructure, education, health, and social development. Notably, the state government is diligently pursuing opportunities to actualize these initiatives with substantial financial backing from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
The invitation extended by the Japanese government acknowledges the pivotal role Maharashtra plays in international partnerships, spurring the interest of various Japanese industries to explore substantial financial investments within the state. In an anticipated milestone, the Deputy Chief Minister will engage in the signing of MoUs with these industrial entities. The state government is poised to extend various incentives, including provisions related to land, electricity, and water, in a bid to attract and accommodate these prospective investments.
Significant strides are being made in the realm of infrastructure, evidenced by the ongoing progress of key projects such as the Metro, Shivdi-Nhavasheva Parbandar Project, and Samriddhi Highway. While the costs of these ventures have escalated during the tenure of the Mahavikas Aghadi government, concerted efforts are being directed towards securing more favorable terms, including lower interest rates and extended loan tenures, from JICA to support both ongoing and future undertakings.
The past few years have witnessed a reduction in funding from JICA for projects within the state, primarily due to stringent funding criteria. However, this trend is set to change, as project proposals prepared with meticulous attention to technical and financial intricacies will soon be submitted for funding consideration. Ambitious infrastructure initiatives spanning education, social well-being, and healthcare are poised for substantial expansion, and comprehensive proposals are being readied to solicit technical and financial support.
While the details of Deputy Chief Minister Fadnavis’ imminent visit are yet to be finalized, credible sources indicate that intricate discussions and strategic collaborations are already in motion, underscoring the significance of this diplomatic overture.
