On Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met with Akie Abe, the wife of Japan’s late former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, to reflect on the profound impact Shinzo Abe had on India-Japan relations. Both leaders expressed their appreciation for Akie Abe’s ongoing engagement with India and paid tribute to her late husband’s contributions.
During their meeting, PM Modi reminisced about his close personal friendship with Shinzo Abe, highlighting the former Japanese Prime Minister’s pivotal role in strengthening ties between India and Japan. On social media platform X, Modi shared his sentiments: “Pleased to meet Mrs. Abe this afternoon. Recalled my close personal friendship with former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe of Japan.” He further emphasised, “Abe San’s belief in the potential of India-Japan relations will remain a source of enduring strength for us. Deeply appreciate Mrs. Abe’s continuing association with India.”
Earlier in the day, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also had the opportunity to meet Akie Abe. He reflected on Shinzo Abe’s strategic vision and his dedication to fostering India-Japan friendship. Jaishankar noted, “The meeting with Mrs. Akie Abe this morning brought back so many memories of PM Shinzo Abe and his commitment to India-Japan friendship. As our ties steadily progress, the strategic vision of PM Abe will always serve as a guiding spirit.”
Shinzo Abe, Japan’s longest-serving Prime Minister, served from 2006 to 2007 and again from 2012 to 2020. His tenure was marked by significant contributions to India-Japan relations, including his memorable “The Confluence of Two Seas” speech delivered in the Indian Parliament in 2007 and his role as the Chief Guest at India’s Republic Day celebrations in 2014. Abe was awarded India’s highest civilian honour, the Padma Vibhushan, in 2021.
Abe’s assassination in Nara on July 8, 2022, during an election campaign address was a tragic event. He was pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital. Prime Minister Modi attended his state funeral at Nippon Budokan in Tokyo on September 27, 2022, to pay his respects.
India and Japan enjoy a ‘Special Strategic and Global Partnership,’ characterised by deep-rooted spiritual affinity and strong cultural and civilisational ties. The ongoing relationship between the two nations continues to be a testament to the foundations laid by leaders like Shinzo Abe.
As the legacy of Shinzo Abe continues to influence diplomatic relations, both India and Japan remain committed to advancing their strategic partnership and honouring the vision of their late leader.
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