Odisha, Japan’s Tottori Prefecture to Become Sister States

Bhubaneswar, May 20: Japan’s Consul General in Kolkata, Mr Ishikawa Yoshihisa, met Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi at Loka Seva Bhawan today, announcing a sister‑state partnership between Odisha and Japan’s Tottori Prefecture.

The partnership will be formally declared following reciprocal visits by delegations and leaders from both sides.

CM Majhi invited Japanese investment in Odisha’s industrialisation, highlighting opportunities in trade, business, and technology.

Mr Ishikawa emphasised the historic cultural ties between Odisha and Japan, expressing readiness to expand cooperation in socio‑economic initiatives, tourism, and academic exchanges.

Plans include promoting Odisha’s Buddhist circuit and natural attractions to Japanese tourists.

In a significant move for youth empowerment, Japanese recruitment agencies will establish operations in Odisha to facilitate placements for Odia youths in Japan.

Senior officials, including Chief Secretary Anu Garg, ACS Industries Hemant Sharma, and ACS to CM Saswat Mishra, attended the meeting.