Indian Ambassador Sibi George has wrapped up his successful stint in Japan, leaving behind a stronger bond between India and Japan. Japanese Foreign Affairs Minister Takeshi Iwaya hailed him as a “strong bridge” between the two nations, praising his key role in boosting India-Japan relations.
Ambassador George arrived in Tokyo in November 2022, right amid the COVID-19 challenges. Over his time there, he traveled across all 47 prefectures of Japan—from bustling cities and quiet towns in Hokkaido up north to sunny Okinawa down south. He shared, “It was a real privilege to explore every corner of this amazing country.”
During his tenure, Prime Minister Narendra Modi made two important visits to Japan, meeting his counterpart to deepen the Special Strategic and Global Partnership. Modi laid out big plans for the next decade, opening fresh chapters in this key alliance. George highlighted how these trips solidified ties in diplomacy, trade, and security.
One touching highlight was the installation of Mahatma Gandhi statues, celebrating the deep civilizational links between India and Japan. In 2023, PM Modi unveiled a statue at Hiroshima Peace Park. Then, in 2024, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar revealed another in Edogawa ward. George himself unveiled one in Shimane Prefecture. “Japanese people welcomed these warmly—they now stand as lasting symbols of our friendship,” he said.
Cultural exchanges added even more warmth to India-Japan ties. In Gunma Prefecture, the famous Daruma doll, a staple of Japanese tradition, traces its roots to India via Buddhism. It’s a hopeful icon that unites our cultures. Over in Nagasaki’s Peacock Park, a fun story unfolded: India gifted 10 peacocks 15 years ago, and now their numbers have jumped to 200, mirroring our growing historic bond.
On the economic front, progress was huge. Investments hit 10 trillion yen, with 500,000 people-to-people exchanges and 50,000 Indian professionals fueling Japan’s growth. George also worked hard on regional links, bringing 16 Japanese governors to meet PM Modi. Strong partnerships bloomed between Uttar Pradesh and Yamanashi, plus Gujarat and Shizuoka.
His energetic style won him fans everywhere—from politicians to business leaders. Many call him the “Nozomi Ambassador,” after Japan’s super-fast Shinkansen bullet train, nodding to his quick and effective diplomacy.
Looking forward, George stressed the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (QUAD) as a vital pillar. “QUAD builds on our India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership, driving cooperation, prosperity, and stability across the Indo-Pacific,” he noted. Foreign Minister Iwaya agreed, pointing to the leaders’ August joint statement as a roadmap. With India hosting the QUAD summit this year and Australia in 2026, the partnership looks set to thrive.
Ambassador Sibi George’s time in Japan marks a game-changing era for India-Japan relations, forging cultural, strategic, and economic bridges that will shape our shared future for years.
Stay informed on all the latest news, real-time breaking news updates, and follow all the important headlines in world News on Latest NewsX. Follow us on social media Facebook, Twitter(X), Gettr and subscribe our Youtube Channel.
