Indo-Japan economic, culture ties will be further strengthened: CM

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Heartfelt thanks to H. E. Izumi Miyazaki, Governor of Wakayama, Japan for the gracious words that reflect the warmth and trust at the heart of this partnership. The enduring friendship between India and Japan-mirrored in the growing collaboration between Maharashtra and… pic.twitter.com/38bQdJcjzX

— Devendra Fadnavis (@Dev_Fadnavis) February 13, 2026

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Fadnavis stated that Mumbai is India’s financial, commercial, cultural, and entertainment capital. Maharashtra and Wakayama, designated as ‘Sister States’, have maintained cordial relations for many years.

Bamiyan Buddha statue in Nagpur

Marking 25 years since the destruction of the Bamiyan Buddha statues in Afghanistan, the Chief Minister proposed the installation of a replica of the Bamiyan Buddhas in Nagpur to Governor Miyazaki. He said Nagpur holds historical significance as the place where Dr Ambedkar embraced Buddhism, leading to a revival movement. The initiative would send a global message of peace and serve as a symbol of India–Japan friendship.

Governor Miyazaki Izumi expressed the intent to renew the agreement between Maharashtra and Wakayama in 2028 and expand cooperation into new areas.

Governor Miyazaki expressed hope that an industry and economic cooperation event organised in Thane under the initiative of Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) would further boost collaboration. Responding positively to the proposal of installing a Bamiyan Buddha replica in Nagpur, he said further discussions would be held on the matter.