Shinzo Abe's Gujarat visit highlights: A strong India in our interest, says Japan PM at bullet train launch event

When I first visited Japan as CM of Gujarat, I had said that I want to see a mini Japan in Gujarat. Today that dream has come true: PM Modi

China says India, Japan ties pose no ‘grave threat’ to Beijing

China has always been wary of growing proximity between India and Japan with whom it has territorial disputes. The state-run Chinese media has often been critical of fast developing ties between India and Japan.

An op-ed in the Global Times said “the India-Japan intimacy is more like a contrivance” and both were “are unlikely to challenge China without giving it a serious thought”.

It said China would never follow India and Japan “who have somewhat lost themselves”.

Japan can benefit tremendously with size & scale of our potential&skilled hands that India offers: PM Modi on India-Japan business relations pic.twitter.com/EAfFVJeFed

— ANI (@ANI) September 14, 2017

‘Rudraksh’ Varanasi Convention Centre, to be a cultural garland that Japan has accorded India: PM Modi

Meanwhile.. Akie Abe visits the Vocational Training Unit at Blind People’s Association (BPA)

@ahmedabadmirror First Lady #AkieAbe making diyas with students at Blind People’s Association PC @ishaniparikh Live: https://t.co/EUJxjV9oW4 pic.twitter.com/KGv82QMZHP

— Deepal.‏‎‎Trivedi #Vo! (@DeepalTrevedie) September 14, 2017

India, Japan sign agreement allowing airlines to fly unlimited flights between both countries

India and Japan on Thursday signed an agreement under which their airlines can operate an unlimited number of flights between the two countries. Japanese carriers All Nippon Airways and Japan Airlines, and Indian carriers Air India and Jet Airways are the airlines that fly between the two countries.

‘Security diamond’ returns with a vengeance at India-Japan summit

On the second day of Shinzo Abe’s two-day visit, a familiar theme returned to the agenda: Asia’s Democratic Security Diamond as coined by the Japanese prime minister back in 2012.

“I envisage a strategy whereby Australia, India, Japan, and the US state of Hawaii form a diamond to safeguard the maritime commons stretching from the Indian Ocean region to the western Pacific. I am prepared to invest, to the greatest possible extent, Japan’s capabilities in this security diamond,” Abe had stated.

One of the motives of this proposed security diamond is to curb China’s increasingly expansionist attitude in the South China Sea region — something that directly affects Japan. Even if this eventually turns out to be a case of mere saber-rattling, Beijing appears to have already received the message. 

India, Japan ink 3 MoUs in science & technology sector

The first pact was signed for an international joint exchange programme between Interdisciplinary Theoretical and Mathematical Sciences (iTHEMS) at Japanese research institute RIKEN and the National Centre for Biological Sciences (Simons-NCBS), Bengaluru. The other two MoUs were inked between the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and the National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology (AIST), Japan – PTI

‘In a way it’s free,’ PM Modi on cost of bullet train

In an apparent move to silence the critics of the muti-million ambitious bullet train project, Prime Minister Narendra Modi today reasserted that India’s gains from the project are much more than it’s cost. 

“Ek prakar se muft mein (In a way it is free),” Modi said reminding that the project was made possible thanks to the Japanese loan of Rs 88,000 crore at an attractive 0.1 per cent interest to be repaid over 50 years,   The Indian Express  reported.

In Pictures: PM Modi, Shinzo Abe at Bullet Train simulator 

Gandhinagar: PM Narendra Modi and Japan's PM Shinzo Abe at Bullet Train Simulator pic.twitter.com/L7TZmBtlkn

— ANI (@ANI) September 14, 2017

#Gujarat: PM Narendra Modi and Japan's PM Shinzo Abe inaugurated Bullet Train Research Institute in Vadodara via video conferencing pic.twitter.com/T0JlHzv0Pk

— ANI (@ANI) September 14, 2017

PM Modi and Shinzo Abe inaugurated Bullet Train Research Institute in Vadodara via video conferencing.

India-Japan to explore possibilities of boosting infra projects in North East

Agreed on Japan-India Act East Forum. It'll explore possibilities of including Japan in North East infrastructure development: S Jaishankar pic.twitter.com/sgXKiFsXD4

— ANI (@ANI) September 14, 2017

Behind high optics infra projects, India-Japan slowly strengthening defence cooperation 

While the cheer and aplomb around bullet train is dominating headlines, India and Japan are quietly strengthening defence cooperation. Speaking to the press, Foreign Secretary S Jaishankar said, “Till now the thrust of the contacts and cooperation have been on maritime security only. We agreed to explore cooperation and exchanges between our Armies/ Ground Self defence force and Air Force and Japan’s Air Defence.” 

We agreed to explore co-operation & exchanges b/w our Army&Ground Self defence force & Air Force & Japan's Air Defence Force: S Jaishnakar pic.twitter.com/r5f4APwVna

— ANI (@ANI) September 14, 2017

India, Japan sign 15 deals, agree to strengthen cooperation in India-Pacific region

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe held wide-ranging talks on key bilateral, regional and international issues and discussed ways to deepen ties in trade, security and civil nuclear energy.

During the talks between the two leaders, India and Japan inked 15 pacts to give a boost to cooperation in various key sectors, including civil aviation, trade and science and technology.

Despite euphoria, bullet train project still has land acquisition hurdles to cross

Even as the nation is cheering and rejoicing over India’s first high speed rail project, the enthusiasm will soon be sullied because the railway authorities are yet to acquire the required private land. Of this entire stretch, 92 percent will be elevated and six percent will be tunneled, The Asian Agereported. The remaining two percent, about 825 hectares of land, may become a major hurdle for completing the bullet train project by 2022.

Rail authorities are also facing a tough time convincing villagers near Virar to give away their land for the project. The rail officials were abused by villagers when they went to discuss the matter.

Some initial reports have identified 163 villages in eight districts of Gujarat, 44 villages in three districts of Maharashtra and some areas in Dadra and Nagar Haveli for land acquisition. About 2,761 families will be affected. 

Read the full report here

India, Japan team up against terror

PM Modi and PM Abe look forward to convening 5th Japan-India consultation on terrorism 1/2

— ANI (@ANI) September 14, 2017

...and to strengthen cooperation against terrorists threats from groups incuding Al-Qaida, ISIS, JeM, LeT and their affiliates 2/2

— ANI (@ANI) September 14, 2017

Bullet train project not economically viable, says Congress

Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge said in Lok Sabha that his party was not against any development project, but added that the Ahmedabad-Mumbai bullet train project was not economically viable. “We are not against any project, but what is the aim? This project is not economically viable,” Kharge said.

“The air fare between Mumbai and Ahmedabad is Rs 2,000, and the bullet train fare would be between Rs 2,800 to Rs 5,000… Only if one lakh passengers travel in the train the project will be economically viable,” said Kharge.

He added that Rs 60,000 crore was being spent on land acquisition, and the cost of the project which has been pitched at Rs 1,10,000 crore may further escalate during implementation.

Modi-Abe hype suggests Gujarat ready to bullet train right now

The fact that the bullet train will be completed only by 2022-23 was lost on most of those present at Thursday’s event.

Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis seemed so excited that he wanted Modi to inaugurate the train in Mumbai, even though he noted that the ground breaking was taking place in Gujarat. 

Gujaratis are known to lap it up with great awe when a foreign dignitary calls Narendra Modi a friend. In this case, Abe started his speech with ‘Namaskar’ and went on to say that he “loved Gujarat” and he would wish to “come here again with Narendra Modi in the bullet train, chatting and looking at the beautiful countryside from the window.” He not only called Japan an old friend of India, remembering how he addressed the Indian Parliament ten years ago, but Modi a “dear friend and a world leader.”

Smriti Irani hails bullet train project

In a series of tweets, Union minister Smriti Irani praised the Ahmedabad-Mumbai bullet train project, saying that it symbolised growth in the country.

#BulletTrain4Growth marks the beginning of a new era in India-Japan ties & a new chapter in India's transportation/infrastructure sector.

— Smriti Z Irani (@smritiirani) September 14, 2017

A giant leap towards modernisation of Railways, #BulletTrain4Growth will also boost industrial development in the region.

— Smriti Z Irani (@smritiirani) September 14, 2017

As stated by Hon PM, #BulletTrain4Growth symbolises a #NewIndia rapidly progressing towards realising aspirations of the people. pic.twitter.com/ENhsrR587w

— Smriti Z Irani (@smritiirani) September 14, 2017

PM Abe reiterated strong support to initiatives like Make In India, Digital India etc; also appreciated PM Modi's economic reforms esp GST

— ANI (@ANI) September 14, 2017

PM Modi & PM Abe condemned in the strongest terms North Korea's continued development of its nuclear weapons & ballistic missile programs

— ANI (@ANI) September 14, 2017

The 15 MoUs signed at the India-Japan Summit meet:

-Disaster Risk Management

– Japanese Language Education in India between MEA and MOFA, Japan

– India Japan Act East Forum

– Arrangement between India Post and Japan Post on Administrative Instruction for the Implementation of Cool EMS service

– India-Japan Investment Promotion Road map between DIPP and METI

– MOC between METI and the State of Gujarat on ‘Japan-India special programme for Make In India’ in Mandal Bechraj-Khoraj in Gujarat

– Exchange of RoD on Civil Aviation Cooperation (Open Sky)

– Agreement for International joint exchange programme between interdisciplinary theoretical and mathematical sciences programme (iTHEMS), RIKEN and National Centres for Biological Sciences (Simons-NCBS)

– Joint Research Contract between National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology (AIST), Japan and Department of Biotechnology (DBT)

– Between DBT and National Institute of Advanced Science & Technology (AIST)

– International Academic and Sports Exchange between Lakshmibai National Institute of Physical Education (LNIPE)and Nippon Sports Science University, Japan (NSSU)

– International Academic and Sports Exchange between Sports Authority of India and Nippon Sports Science University, Japan (NSSU)

– Letter of intent between Lakshmibai National Institute of Physical Education (LNIPE) and University of Tsukuba, Japan

– Letter of intent between Sports Authority of India and University of Tsukuba, Japan

– Between RIS and IDE-JETRO for promotion of Cooperation in Research Related Activities

I urge Japanese business community to open maximum number of Japanese restaurant chains in India: PM Narendra Modi pic.twitter.com/pT98G2cWeK

— ANI (@ANI) September 14, 2017

Abe pins hope on popularising Japanese language in India

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said that with the signing of MoU on Japanese language, he hopes that the language will find a way among the common people in India.

He also thanked India for a warm welcome. “I’d like to take this opportunity to thank India and the people of India,” he said.

Abe speaks on ties between India, Japan and US

“India, Japan and US conducted joint maritime exercise in Malabar for the first time, based on strong ties of trust between Modi and US president Donald Trump. It will further deepen cooperation between India, Japan & the US,” Abe said.

Deepening the Special Strategic & Global Partnership. #IndiaJapan sign 15 agreements/documents during the 12th India Japan Annual Summit pic.twitter.com/4WwSFR5n0M

— Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) September 14, 2017

India is transforming, says Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that with initiatives like ease of doing business, Skill India or Make in India show that India is transforming.

He also announced a delivery service between the two nations to serve the Japanese diaspora in India. “India Post & Japan Post to start a ‘cool box service’ for Japanese living in India so that they can order their favorite food from Japan, said Modi.”

In 2016-17 Japan invested 4.7 billion dollars in India, which is 80% higher than last year: PM Modi pic.twitter.com/jUDANEiCxz

— ANI (@ANI) September 14, 2017

I heartily welcome the agreements signed today, they will strengthen India-Japan partnership: PM Modi pic.twitter.com/DK5fJ2Eso3

— ANI (@ANI) September 14, 2017

In 2016-17 Japan invested 4.7 billion dollars in India, which is 80% higher than last year: PM Modi pic.twitter.com/jUDANEiCxz

— ANI (@ANI) September 14, 2017

Modi address India-Japan summit meet

“I am happy to welcome Shinzo Abe to India. We have met several times on the sidelines of international events. Yesterday, we attended Sabarmati Ashram. Today we went to Gandhi Musuem,” said Narendra Modi.

Konnichiwa, good afternoon; I welcome PM Shinzo Abe: PM Modi begins his press statement pic.twitter.com/6gb7fNfV8w

— ANI (@ANI) September 14, 2017

Gandhinagar: PM Narendra Modi & Japanese PM Shinzo Abe witness exchange of agreements between the two nations. pic.twitter.com/lu9v56Gkng

— ANI (@ANI) September 14, 2017

Exchange of agreements takes place

The following agreements were exchanged:

– Japanese Language of India
– Act East 
– Record of discussion civil aviation authorities

Strengthening the Special Strategic & Global Partnership.
PM @narendramodi and PM @AbeShinzo review entire spectrum of bilateral cooperation pic.twitter.com/OFyfnApjqu

— Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) September 14, 2017

A strong synergy for peace & prosperity
Ahead of bilateral talks, PM @narendramodi welcomes PM @AbeShinzo at Mahatma Mandir#SwagatShinzoSan pic.twitter.com/o1yWWuC7oq

— Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) September 14, 2017

Modi, Abe in Dandi Kutir

महात्मा की विरासत का संरक्षण
दोनों प्रधान मंत्रिओं ने दांडी कुटीर का दौरा किया #SwagatShinzoSan pic.twitter.com/02vAbRVNvz

— Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) September 14, 2017

Delegation-level talks between #India & #Japan begin at Mahatma Mandir in #Gandhinagar #IndiaJapanAnnualSummit pic.twitter.com/l07SkuZcab

— DD News (@DDNewslive) September 14, 2017

PM @narendramodi & Japanese PM @AbeShinzo reach at #Gandhinagar to attend 12th #IndiaJapanAnnualSummit held at Mahatma Mandir, #Gujarat. pic.twitter.com/hCHFDhW9ts

— All India Radio News (@airnewsalerts) September 14, 2017

#WATCH Gandhinagar: PM Narendra Modi & Japanese PM Shinzo Abe pose for photographs; will issue joint press statements later today. pic.twitter.com/0YJ0XQnadj

— ANI (@ANI) September 14, 2017

Flagship project of #IndiaJapan partnership.
The high speed corridor will be built with financial & technical assistance from Japan pic.twitter.com/TKNR2aqXcy

— Indian Diplomacy (@IndianDiplomacy) September 14, 2017

Towards next gen infrastructure...foundation stone for India's first high speed rail laid by PMs @AbeShinzo and @narendramodi. pic.twitter.com/YbQXSakJaZ

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) September 14, 2017

What Modi’s presence does to Gujarat BJP 

For the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party in Gujarat, the very presence of Narendra Modi — be it as the chief minister or the prime minister — electrifies party cadres.

And when he comes calling with a highly ambitious project like the bullet train that promises to collapse the geographical distances between two cousins, Ahmedabad and Mumbai, split only by political boundaries in the sixties, it only adds to the euphoria. And that too, Gujarat goes to a crucial election in December with the BJP increasingly missing the Modi Magic.

I congratulate PM @narendramodi & Japanese PM @AbeShinzo for laying the foundation stone of path breaking Bullet Train project in Ahmedabad. pic.twitter.com/JcSiGWbND1

— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) September 14, 2017

Gujarat: PM Narendra Modi & Japanese PM Shinzo Abe at Gandhinagar's Dandi Kuteer, a museum dedicated to the life Mahatma Gandhi. pic.twitter.com/jEpWTgsSxR

— ANI (@ANI) September 14, 2017

Gujarat: PM Narendra Modi & Japanese PM Shinzo Abe at Gandhinagar's Dandi Kuteer. pic.twitter.com/uaqREixe82

— ANI (@ANI) September 14, 2017

Forget bullet train, real thrust of India-Japan relationship is on defence, China

Abe’s visit to India for the 12th Indo-Japan Annual Summit comes at a particularly interesting time. Both nations are grappling with the trajectory of China’s rise and struggling to keep pace with a geopolitical order thrown into turmoil over doubts about America’s role as a global security guarantor. And as if the world needed a dash of more uncertainty, the tinpot from North Korea has decided that this is the right time to test a hydrogen bomb and threaten Donald Trump.

These rapid variables have forced India and Japan to snuggle closer, and both nations appear on the cusp of a major upgradation in bilateral ties.

Akie Abe’s schedule for the day

The First Lady of Japan will begin her day by visiting the garden at Sabarmati riverfront. Later, she will be greeted by 18 children singing ‘Kem chho, konnichiwa’, on her visit to the Indo-Japan Friendship Association (IJFA). The song, penned by IJFA’s Mukesh Patel, will be sung by students of  Zydus School of Excellence.

She will also address students at Gujarat University, where she will speak on climate change, and visit the Vocational Training Unit at Blind People’s Association. On her visit to the Japan Information Centre, Akie will inaugurate the Origami Mahotsav and will be served a bullet train ice cream cake.

Watch parts of Narendra Modi’s speech here:

Tech for #BulletTrain project will be from Japan, but assembly will be in India. Integrated transport is a big need for ‘New India’: PM Modi pic.twitter.com/XLgz6WjaXN

— News18 (@CNNnews18) September 14, 2017

#BREAKING -- In terms of railways, no other govt. has taken such bold initiatives as this govt.: PM Modi on #BulletTrain project pic.twitter.com/pkoDkVrjQu

— News18 (@CNNnews18) September 14, 2017

Boostinginfrastructure&connectivity. PMs @narendramodi & @AbeShinzo attend groundbreaking ceremony of Mumbai-Ahmedabad hi-speed rail project pic.twitter.com/XInoVaY2Pj

— Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) September 14, 2017

Our railway network is so huge that number of people travelling in trains every week in India is equal to Japan's total population: PM pic.twitter.com/TDSPqWPwTw

— ANI (@ANI) September 14, 2017

In a week, a number of people equal to the size of population of Japan travels just in the railways in India: Modi

“In a week, a number of people equal to the size of population of Japan travels just in the railways in India. Therefore, we have a lot of potential,” said Narendra Modi.

He also thanked Gujarat and Maharashtra governments for resolving issues related to the projects quickly.

We hope that in 2022, Shinzo Abe and I take a ride in the bullet train together: Modi

“No government has shown the kind of involvement in railways this government has shown,” said the prime minister.

“The government is always committed to the growth of Indian railways,” Modi said.

“From Kolkata to Ludhiana, eastern freight corridor is being constructed,” said the prime minister, adding that these will reduce congestion and increase the trasportation capabilities of railways.

“We hope that in 2022, Abe san and I take a ride in the bullet train together,” Modi said. “A high-speed training institute is also being established in Vadodara.”

Whether it be railways, highways, waterways or airways, we are focusing on all areas: Modi

“Integrated transport system is the dream of new India,” said the prime minister.

“Whether it be railways, highways, waterways or airways, we are focusing on all areas,” Modi said.

“We are constructing roads faster than ever. Transport system has also benefitted from GST,” he said. “In the entire economy, 30 percent development in the transport system took place because of GST,” he added.

“In the last 3 years, 3 crore new domestic flyers have been added to the civil aviation system,” said the prime minister.

Thank you my friend Shinzo Abe, he took personal interest & assured there should be no glitches in the project:PM @narendramodi #BulletTrain pic.twitter.com/toBJyOIcoA

— DD News (@DDNewslive) September 14, 2017

If one says take loan & return it in 50 yrs, is it believable?But Japan is such a friend,they gave us loan of 88,000 cr at 0.1% interest: PM pic.twitter.com/wPEWw8zwBC

— ANI (@ANI) September 14, 2017

Entire area between Mumbai and Ahmedabad will come in a single economic zone: Modi

“With this project, the entire area between Mumbai and Ahmedabad will come in a single economic zone,” Modi said.

“Trade will be encouraged. Connectivity between places will increase. Whether this leads to transfer of manpower or exchange of goods, these aspects of connectivity will become very simple,” said the prime minister.

“Technology, if used against poverty, can reduce poverty to a great extent. We want technology to become a part of the lives of the poor people,” he said.

“Our efforts are to provide benefits of new technology to the common person,” said the prime minister.

Some people are asking me why the bullet train project was brought to India: Modi

“India cannot find a bank as great as a friend like Japan,” Modi said. “People do not find banks but India found such a friend in Japan that Japan was ready to give Rs 88,000 crore at 0.1 percent loan to India,” he added.

“Some people used to ask me when I will bring in the bullet trains. But now, when the bullet train project is here, they are asking me why I am bringing the bullet trains,” said the prime minister, taking a dig at his political opponents.

Now next generation growth will happen at places where there are high speed corridors: PM Modi pic.twitter.com/4vyJpwLyhq

— ANI (@ANI) September 14, 2017

Economic development has a direct relation with productivity: Modi

“Right now is not the time for slow growth. Time does not wait for a long time,” Narendra Modi said.

“Technology which would not have changed in the last 100 years, has now changed in 50 years,” said the prime minister.

“Our aim is: More productivity with high-speed connectivity,” Modi said. “Economic development has a direct relation with productivity,” he added.

Next-generation growth will take place only where there are high-speed corridors: Modi

“If the inauguration for this project is taking place so fast, the credit goes to Shinzo Abe,” said Narendra Modi. “He took a personal interest to see that this project goes smoothly without any difficulties,” Modi added.

“Next-generation growth will take place only where there are high-speed corridors,” Modi said. “An efficient transport system plays a crucial role in the development of a country,” he said.

“People get the benefits of connectivity through various ways,” said the prime minister, adding that everyone knows about how there was fast growth in America after railways were established there.

“Right now, Shinzo Abe was telling us the kind of difficulties Japan had to face after the Second World War. But after 1964, with the establishment of the bullet train, the country saw fast development,” he said.

ये न्यू इंडिया है और इसके सपनों का विस्तार, इसकी उड़ान असीम है, इसकी इच्छाशक्ति असीमित है: PM @narendramodi

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) September 14, 2017

Bullet train will lead to great speed, great development and great technology: Narendra Modi

“It is the collection of dreams which enables a country to move forward,” said Narendra Modi.

“Today, India has taken a crucial step in fulfiling an age-old dream,” he said.

“The bullet train project is one which bring about great speed, great development and great technology. This project will bring about employment and speed. It is human-friendly and eco-friendly,” Modi said.

“This is a historic and emotional day for India-Japan ties,” he said.

I wish that when I come here next I come with PM Modi in a Shinkansen (#BulletTrain): Japanese PM Shinzo Abe pic.twitter.com/5syIXwh4xd

— ANI (@ANI) September 14, 2017

Chants of ‘Modi! Modi!’ heard from the crowd as Narendra Modi gets up to address the crowd

Shinzo Abe ends speech with ‘dhanyavad’

I hope I get to travel in the bullet train the next time I come to Ahmedabad: Abe

“I hope that the next time I come to Ahmedabad, I get to travel in the bullet train,” Abe said.

“I like Gujarat a lot. For my beloved Gujarat and India, I will do whatever is possible,” he said.

If we combine ‘Ja’ from ‘Japan’ and ‘I’ from India, the word we get is ‘JAI’: Abe

We want peace, cooperation in Indian Ocean: Shinzo Abe

“Since the Shinkansen service was started in Japan, no disaster has been reported. And I can proudly say that it is the safest mode of transport available,” said Abe.

“Japan and India sustain important issues like human rights, democracy,” he further said. “More than 100 engineers from Japan are in India,” he said.

“We want peace and cooperation in the Indian Ocean,” he added.

Narendra Modi is a global leader: Shinzo Abe

“My dear friend Narendra Modi is a global and far-sighted leader,” Abe said.

“Japanese engineers are working day and night to ensure the success of this project. If Indian and Japanese people combine their efforts, there is nothing which cannot be achieved,” the Japanese prime minister also said.

“India can become the factory of the world if India and Japan combine their efforts,” he said.

India's first high speed rail project inaugurated by PM Modi & Japanese PM Shinzo Abe in Ahmedabad. pic.twitter.com/YMK0urdAra

— ANI (@ANI) September 14, 2017

A powerful India is beneficial for Japan and a powerful Japan is beneficial for India: Shinzo Abe

“Exactly 10 years back, I had the good fortune of speaking in the Indian parliament…A powerful India is beneficial for Japan and a powerful Japan is beneficial for India,” said Abe.

“Today, we can see a glance of the bright future for India and Japan,” the Japanese prime minister further said.

“After the Second World War, Japan resembled a burning field,” Abe said, adding that the country had seen a lot of development after that and had eventually installed a bullet train.

Shinzo Abe begins his speech with a ‘Namaskar’

Shinzo Abe, Narendra Modi lay foundation stone for bullet train

Watch Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani’s speech here:

Welcome Japanese PM Shinzo Abe & express gratitude towards Japan. Entire Gujarat is experiencing immense joy today: Gujarat CM #BulletTrain pic.twitter.com/vmcksbj3Av

— News18 (@CNNnews18) September 14, 2017

Watch: Narendra Modi, Shinzo Abe inspect a model of the bullet train

PM @narendramodi & Japanese PM @AbeShinzo inspect a model of the high-speed rail from #Mumbai to #Ahmedabad #BulletTrain pic.twitter.com/4wxbOPhsfa

— DD News (@DDNewslive) September 14, 2017

पीएम @narendramodi , @AbeShinzo #BulletTrain परियोजना कार्यक्रम में l pic.twitter.com/oOzOPvNqZE

— All India Radio News (@airnewsalerts) September 14, 2017

Welcome Japanese PM Shinzo Abe & express gratitude towards Japan. Entire Gujarat is experiencing immense joy today: Gujarat CM #BulletTrain pic.twitter.com/tIYHwcc7cV

— ANI (@ANI) September 14, 2017

Japan’s ties with India have improved because of Modi: Vijay Rupani

“Japan’s ties with India have improved because of Narendra Modi,” said Gujarat chief minister Vijay Rupani. He also said that it was because of the years of efforts in diplomcay by Modi that India’s ties with Japan have improved.

Watch Piyush Goyal’s speech here:

#BulletTrain project will complete Prime Minister Modi’s vision of ‘New India’: Union Minister Piyush Goyal pic.twitter.com/J7xbRpL7vC

— News18 (@CNNnews18) September 14, 2017

If there is a friend of India, it is Japan: Fadnavis

“If there is a friend of India, it is Japan,” said Fadnavis.

“I would request the prime minister to also inaugurate the train from Mumbai when the project is complete,” said the Maharashtra chief minister.

Bullet trains will fulfil vision of prosperity: Goyal

“Projects like bullet train will fulfil the vision of prosperity and Prime Minister Narendra Modiji’s vision for development in India,” said Goyal.

Ahmedabad: PM Modi & Japanese PM Shinzo Abe arrive at the stage for inauguration of High Speed Rail from Mumbai to Ahmedabad #BulletTrain pic.twitter.com/OcQCsQtONn

— ANI (@ANI) September 14, 2017

This bullet train will support Make in India: Goyal

“I believe that with Japan’s technology, the bullet train will be successful and will provide a boost to Make in India,” Goyal said, adding that cheap transportation will add to India’s image in the world.

“30 years ago, due to partnership with Maruti Suzuki, there had been a revolution in the auto industry in India,” Goyal said.

#WATCH LIVE from Ahmedabad: PM & Japanese PM Shinzo Abe lay foundation stone for Mumbai-Ahmedabad High Speed Rail https://t.co/nvfWyrV8Pv

— ANI (@ANI) September 14, 2017

It was because of an incident in a train in South Africa that Gandhi was inspired to fight against racism: Railway minister

“We are thankful that we got the opportunity to do this at Sabamarti,” Railway Minister Piyush Goyal said.

“It was because of an incident in a train in South Africa that Gandhi was inspired to fight against racism, apartheid,” Goyal said.

“This bullet train is a symbol of harmony between Indians and Japanese,” he said.

Stage set for foundation-laying ceremony of bullet train

#Ahmedabad: Stage is set for ground breaking ceremony of India's 1st high speed rail project at #Sabarmati Station ground.#AIRPIcs: Aparna pic.twitter.com/n65oe8sBEk

— All India Radio News (@airnewsalerts) September 14, 2017

Watch: Modi, Abe at ceremony venue

#BREAKING – PM Modi and Shinzo Abe arrive for laying of foundation stone for India’s first #BulletTrain project|ground report: @SiddiquiMaha pic.twitter.com/n1JowmTvNU

— News18 (@CNNnews18) September 14, 2017

Japanese PM @AbeShinzo arrives at Sabarmati ground for ground breaking ceremony of India's first high-speed rail link #BulletTrain pic.twitter.com/r8wMk64tkD

— DD News (@DDNewslive) September 14, 2017

Vijay Rupani, Devendra Fadnavis also at foundation laying ceremony of bullet train

Modi at Sabarmati ground

PM @narendramodi arrives at Sabarmati ground for the foundation stone laying ceremony of #BulletTrain, Japanese PM @AbeShinzo to arrive soon pic.twitter.com/EiMZ9hzaV4

— DD News (@DDNewslive) September 14, 2017

#BulletTrain third-highest trend on Twitter

#BulletDosti #BulletTrain My today's @mid_day #cartoon pic.twitter.com/8TUT7WHWlb

— MANJUL (@MANJULtoons) September 14, 2017

FACT:#BulletTrain contract with Japan which Modi ji Publicizes was signed by Dr Manmohan Singh & Shinzo Abe in 2013 https://t.co/xqIVm8HneX pic.twitter.com/UJi0YQoWJt

— Rachit Seth🇮🇳 (@rachitseth) September 13, 2017

Bullet train day! More I read about it think it's a win-win: Japanese money, Indian benefit!! Now to meet deadlines! #BulletTrain

— Rajdeep Sardesai (@sardesairajdeep) September 14, 2017

Modi’s unprecedented interest in Abe’s visit

From choosing the restaurant for the welcome dinner for Shinzo Abe to deciding the historical monuments which the Japanese prime minister will visit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took affairs in his own hands when it came to the Japanese prime minister’s trip.

“Modi’s interest in the visit is remarkable considering India-Japan summits are now annual affairs, with this being his fourth with Abe,” said an aritcle in The Times of India .

Shiv Sena questions the need for the bullet train project

“The bullet train will run on the chest of farmers. There is no money for loan waivers, but there’s enough for such expansive projects,” News18 quoted Shiv Sena as saying.

Gujarat viewing India-Japan meet as modified version of ‘Vibrant Gujarat Summit’

With the participation of more than 100 Japanese corporates and envoys, the Gujarat government is viewing the annual meet as a modified version of ‘Vibrant Gujarat Summit’, reported DNA . There are at least four Japanese corporate giants which are going to make an investments of Rs 1 lakh crore each.

The MoUs will be signed in sectors like engineering and automobile, infrastructure, IT and skill development. Other key areas identified by Gujarat government for development and investment from Japan are aerospace and defence manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, electronics, and housing.

Click here to read the full article.

Japan’s First Lady Akie Abe to visit Blind People’s Association

Gujarat: Japan's first lady Akie Abe to visit Blind People’s Association in Ahmedabad. pic.twitter.com/wzq3s1Wtx7

— ANI (@ANI) September 14, 2017

#Visuals: Venue of Mumbai-Ahmedabad High Speed Rail inauguration in Ahmedabad #BulletTrain pic.twitter.com/mAl3bGGVIb

— ANI (@ANI) September 14, 2017

Bullet train’s maiden trip will be on 15 August, 2022

The government earlier had set a deadline of December 2023. However, newly appointed Union Minister for Railways Piyush Goyal on Monday announced that the government had advanced the date of completion by more than a year.

Goyal said the bullet train will make its first trip from Mumbai to Ahmedabad on 15 August, 2022 – when India completes 75 years of independence.

Bullet Train will be ready in less than 5 years 

The government has promised that the first ‘Bullet train’ will run in less than five years. The Mumbai-Ahmedabad High Speed Rail (MAHSR) project received cabinet approval in 2015 and within two years, construction has already begun.

Bullet train will be linked by 12 stations between Mumbai and Ahmedabad

The bullet train will connect Mumbai and Ahmedabad and will be linked by a total of 12 stations. The train will stop at Mumbai, Thane, Virar, Boisar, Vapi, Bilimora, Surat, Bharuch, Vadodara, Anand, Ahmedabad, and Sabarmati stations. The Mumbai station will be underground while all others will be elevated.

Agenda for the day for Modi and Abe

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe will lay the foundation stone for India’s first bullet train project today.

The Ahmedabad-Mumbai bullet train project is expected to be completed by 2022 and is likely to traverse the distance of over 500 km between the two cities in around two hours. Japan has extended a soft loan for the ambitious project conceptualised by Modi.

The two leaders will also hold the 12th Indo-Japan annual Summit meeting at Gandhinagar after which agreements will be exchanged.

RECAP: Akei Abe before dinner hosted by the prime minister

In remembrance of Mahatma Gandhi...PM @AbeShinzo and PM @narendramodi at the Sabarmati Ashram. pic.twitter.com/BXHmc06VZT

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) September 13, 2017

RECAP: Narendra Modi with his Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe and his wife Akei Abe at Sabarmati and ‘Sidi Saiyyid Ni Jaali

Mrs. Abe, PM @AbeShinzo and PM @narendramodi at the 'Sidi Saiyyid Ni Jaali’ in Ahmedabad. pic.twitter.com/SGEkc2MkGm

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) September 13, 2017

In remembrance of Mahatma Gandhi...PM @AbeShinzo and PM @narendramodi at the Sabarmati Ashram. pic.twitter.com/BXHmc06VZT

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) September 13, 2017

RECAP: Shinzo Abe remembers his 2015 trip to Varanasi

PM @AbeShinzo remembers his Varanasi visit in 2015. pic.twitter.com/xOkaRY4qwj

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) September 13, 2017

Updates for 14 September begin

PM @narendramodi & his Japanese counterpart @AbeShinzo will lay the foundation of India's first high-speed rail link #BulletTrain today pic.twitter.com/KNnSTkOnrI

— DD News (@DDNewslive) September 14, 2017

India, Japan may step up nuclear cooperation in non-energy areas

India and Japan may enhance their cooperation in non-energy areas of the nuclear sector, a senior government official said, ahead of the delegation level talks between the prime ministers of the two countries on Thursday. The official, however, said there are little chances of an agreement to procure equipment from Japan for building nuclear power plants in the country, as talks with French company EDF and American nuclear giant Westinghouse Electric Company are ongoing in this regard.

There is, however, a possibility of negotiations to have Japanese credit-line in future for procuring these high-end equipment, he said. Non-energy areas include nuclear medicine, irradiation, research and development in atomic sector.

— PTI

What’s on the menu tonight, as Modi hosts Shinzo Abe?

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe will have dinner at Ahmedabad’s famous Agashiye restaurant on Wednesday, will be given a taste of traditional vegetarian Gujarati cuisine, including handvo and khichdi kadhi, reports India TV .

Shinzo Abe signed the guest book at Ahmedabad’s Sabarmati Ashram

Gujarat: Prime Minister Shinzo Abe signed the visitor's book at Ahmedabad's Sabarmati Ashram in Japanese. pic.twitter.com/6THrormUgt

— ANI (@ANI) September 13, 2017

Prime Minister’s Office tweets pictures of Modi’s meeting with Abe

Mrs. Abe, PM @AbeShinzo and PM @narendramodi at the 'Sidi Saiyyid Ni Jaali’ in Ahmedabad. pic.twitter.com/SGEkc2MkGm

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) September 13, 2017

Defence cooperation likely to top agenda for Modi-Abe meeting

Boosting cooperation in defence and security is likely to be a major focus area when Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe hold the annual summit talks in Gandhinagar in Gujarat on Thursday.

— PTI

In pics: Check out the 16th century Sidi Saiyyed Mosque

PM #NarendraModi & PM #ShinzoAbe reach Sidi Saiyad Ni Jali in old city. Monument known for its stone lattice work built in 1573

File Pics pic.twitter.com/uNhXBSu1Lm

— All India Radio News (@airnewsalerts) September 13, 2017

Modi, Abe reach Sidi Saiyyed mosque

Prime Ministers of India and Japan, Narendra Modi and Shinzo Abe, and the latter’s wife Akie Abe, have reached the ‘Sidi Saiyyid Ni Jaali’, a famous 16th century mosque in Ahmedabad.

‘Thrilling welcome’ accorded to Shinze Abe, foreign ministry tweets

Thrilling welcome to the honoured guest. PM @AbeShinzo received with warm affection by enthusiastic crowd pic.twitter.com/RfHBCVFAOr

— Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) September 13, 2017

From climate talk to NGO visit, Japanese first lady has a packed schedule tomorrow

Japanese First Lady Akie Abe is scheduled to attend a number of programmes in Ahmedabad on Thursday during the two-day India visit of her husband and

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe beginning tomorrow.

Ahmedabad district collector Avantika Singh said the Japanese first lady will visit various institutions where she will interact with people, and deliver a lecture on climate change at the Gujarat University.

Akie Abe will visit Ahmedabad Management Association, Blind’s People Association, and the Gujarat University, apart from visiting Calico Museum and Sabarmati riverfront on September 14 as part of her visit to the state.

In Pictures: Shinzo, Akie Abe paying tributes to Mahatma Gandhi

Image Source: Twitter/ @MEAIndia

Shinzo and Akie Abe paid tributes to Mahatma Gandhi at Sabarmati Aashram

The Japanese PM, his wife Akie Abe and PM Modi paid there respects to Mahatma Gandhi’s statue at Sabarmati Ashram. The place has drawn many high-profile visitors and heads of states in the past too as it is the spot from where Gandhi led the Dandi march, in 1930.

Despite high-optic visits between India-Japan, bilateral trade declines

In Pictures: Shinzo, Akie Abe sign visitor book at Sabarmati Aashram

Ahmedabad: Japanese PM Shinzo Abe & his wife Akie Abe sign the visitor's book at Sabarmati Ashram. pic.twitter.com/QG3ifIzz7v

— ANI (@ANI) September 13, 2017

Shinzo, Akie Abe don Indian clothes for the occasion

Dressed in a crimson Kurta, Akie Abe was on the side of Japanese PM Shinzo Abe, who himself had donned a blue Nehru Jacket and white Kurta Pajama. The duo visited the Sabarmati Ashram and spent a few minutes at the Sabarmati waterfront. 

Japanese PM Shinzo Abe, his wife Akie Abe and PM Narendra Modi at Sabarmati Riverfront in Ahmedabad. pic.twitter.com/JvhwZYf6WL

— ANI (@ANI) September 13, 2017

Modi accompanying Shinzo Abe to Sidi Saiyyed mosque is an exercise in image makeover for PM

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s decision to accompany his Japanese counterpart, Shinzo Abe, to the 16th century Sidi Saiyyed mosque in Ahmedabad marks an important turn in his political evolution. Famed globally for its exquisite stone lattice work or jalis, the mosque is not just an architectural marvel, but also the symbolic icon of Ahmedabad city. 

The mosque is evidence of historical fruition of Gujarat’s multiculturalism, a testimony to Hindu and Muslim cultures coming together in the past.

Watch: Latest visuals of Narendra Modi, Shinzo Abe from Ahmedabad roadshow 

#LIVE – Abe-Modi Roadshow: Ahmedabad decked up for mega roadshow. pic.twitter.com/stbfPHbwgf

— News18 (@CNNnews18) September 13, 2017

In Pictures: Shinzo Abe accorded a tri-service guard of honour at his arrival

PM @AbeShinzo received a tri-service guard of honour upon his arrival in Ahmedabad pic.twitter.com/TSmDg6vbRW

— Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) September 13, 2017

Top Chef from Taj Hotel, Delhi flown in to prepare ceremonial dinner for Shinzo Abe

Shinzo Abe, Narendra Modi’s roadshow begins

Gujarat: PM Modi & Japanese PM Shinzo Abe's road show to Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad, underway. pic.twitter.com/eusZfayKL7

— ANI (@ANI) September 13, 2017

Meanwhile… Japanese PM’s official YouTube Channel puts out a video ‘High-Speed bullet train coming to India’

Abe and Modi to embark on 8km roadshow shortly

The Japanese PM was received with ceremonial welcome at the Ahmedabad airport. He will now embark on an 8-kilometre-long road show that will end at the Sabarmati Aashram.

Traditional Gujarati dance played out at Ahmedabad airport to welcome Shinzo Abe

Japanese PM @AbeShinzo arrives in #Ahmedabad , #Gujarat to boost #IndiaJapan ties #ModiAbe pic.twitter.com/w3iTbDBY9K

— Doordarshan News (@DDNewsLive) September 13, 2017

Wartch: PM Modi welcome Shinzo Abe at Ahmedabad airport

#WATCH : PM Narendra Modi receives Japanese PM Shinzo Abe & his wife Akie Abe at Ahmedabad Airport. pic.twitter.com/Sui3i6jYdi

— ANI (@ANI) September 13, 2017

India rolls out the red carpet for Shinzo Abe: PM breaks protocol to receive Japan’s PM, ceremonial welcome underway

Shinzo Abe lands on Indian soil, recieves ceremonial welcome at Ahmedabad airport

Gujarat: PM Narendra Modi receives Japanese PM Shinzo Abe and his wife Akie Abe at Ahmedabad Airport. pic.twitter.com/0ZOAROdDaN

— ANI (@ANI) September 13, 2017

India-Japan to Seal Amphibious Aircraft Deal During Shinzo Abe’s Visit

According to News 18 , India is all set to buy the US 2i amphibious aircraft ShinMayWa from Japan in a record deal of 1.3 billion dollars, ironing out the differences over price, the two nations had. 

Japan is pushing for over-the-counter sale of the US-2 aircraft produced by ShinMaywa Industries Ltd, which has a range of about 4,500 km and is suitable for search-and-rescue operations. The US-2 is also capable of carrying sensitive communications equipment.

This aircraft usually has the capability of landing on choppy waters with waves of up to three metres, apart from having long-range civilian and military applications.

PM Modi breaks protocol to greet his ‘friend’

The last time Narendra Modi broke protocol to recieve a foreign dignitary, it was for his ‘friend’ Barack’s India visit. The Indian prime minister broke protocol to receive the then US president, Barack Obama. This time around, he is again set to receive Japan’s PM Shinzo Abe. 

The procedure laid down for the heads of governments visits is that a minsiter of Cabinet rank usually greets the dignitary at the airport.

PM Modi thanks his Japanese counterpart for his message hailing India-Japan ties 

As India welcomes PM @AbeShinzo, I thank him for his kind words on the robust India-Japan partnership and the strong potential of our ties. pic.twitter.com/TdnISF8E62

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 13, 2017

In Pictures: PM Modi, with his VVIP convoy, is all set to recieve Shinzo Abe

Gujarat: PM Narendra Modi to receive Japanese PM Shinzo Abe at Ahmedabad Airport, shortly. pic.twitter.com/u7yrZgIG0b

— ANI (@ANI) September 13, 2017

Locals gather up on the route of Modi-Abe road show

Rain may play spoil-sport for first-of-its-kind Modi, Abe roadshow

The skies are overcast in Ahmedabad, even as a massive road show is set to begin within moments. The Prime Minister has reached the Ahmedabad airport to recieve Japan’s head of State Shinzo Abe and his wife and a roadshow till the Sabarmati Ashram is set to begin soon after. 

However, even as the monsoon season in the state ebbs away, we are sure the meticulous planning underway since week, must have taken into account an event of rain.

Shinzo Abe to land shortly, PM Modi, Vijay Rupani reach airport 

Gujarat: PM Narendra Modi arrives in Ahmedabad; will be receiving Japanese PM Shinzo Abe shortly. pic.twitter.com/fTPP5hKBs1

— ANI (@ANI) September 13, 2017

A roof-top dinner of PM Modi’s favourite delicacies for Japanese premier

PM Narendra Modi, Japan’s Shinzo Abe and his wife Akie will have dinner tonight at Ahmedabad’s famous Agashiye terrace restaurant. The Japanese PM will not only be given an overview of the heritage of the city in the Indian prime minister’s home state, he will also get a taste of famously sweet-and-savoury Gujarati cuisine. While the entire menu is under wraps, Abe will reportedly be served traditionally vegetarian GUjarati meal, along with PM Modi’s favourite “Handvo” or vegetable cake.

#Gujarat: Visuals from Ahmedabad ahead of PM Modi & Japan PM Shinzo Abe's visit, they will hold a roadshow to Sabarmati Ashram pic.twitter.com/bDZsOJpbKI

— ANI (@ANI) September 13, 2017

Around 9,000 police personnel depoloyed across Ahmedabad

According to NDTV , 9,000 cops were deployed across Ahmedabad ahead of Shinzo Abe’s visit to Gujarat.

Modi to arrive at Ahmedabad airport at around 3.30 pm: Zee News

Modi, Abe to visit Sabarmati Ashram at 4.30 pm: BJP

PM Shri @narendramodi to welcome Japan PM @AbeShinzo today in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. Watch at https://t.co/vpP0MI6iTu #SwagatShinzoSan pic.twitter.com/DamtRlUCd4

— BJP (@BJP4India) September 13, 2017

Watch: Preparations being made for special Gujarati dinner for Abe, Modi

A special #Gujarati dinner awaits #Japanese Prime Minister @AbeShinzo and his delegation in #Ahmedabad today pic.twitter.com/kKNdQ4rwuP

— DD News (@DDNewslive) September 13, 2017

Japan probably India’s closest strategic partner

According to The Times of India , India will most probably finalise the first defence purchases from Japan, the US-2 amphibious plane.

India and Japan will hope to enhance their ties in defence and nuclear technology.

The two countries are also working on the Asia-Africa growth corridor, which — while not as smooth as the Chinese OBOR — will involve more local interests and participation.

India is also looking at more collaboration with Japanese nuclear companies.

Early completion of Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train a game changer: Piyush Goyal

The early completion of the Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train set to be a game changer for our economic & social growth.https://t.co/xXJ3NBYWKP pic.twitter.com/eZC7kV4o2M

— Piyush Goyal (@PiyushGoyal) September 13, 2017

グジャラートへようこそ

Welcome to Gujarat pic.twitter.com/xLxeAbRCUs

— Vijay Rupani (@vijayrupanibjp) September 13, 2017

Music and garba in Ahmedabad

The visit of the Japanese premier has ensured an early arrival of the Navratris at least in Ahmedabad. With music, garba dance events even at the Gujarat University, where Mrs Abe is expected to visit. Large parts of the city are all decked up, giving the city a festive look.

Visuals from Sidi Saiyyed Mosque in Ahmedabad

Visuals from Sidi Saiyyed Mosque in Ahmedabad, to be visited by PM Modi & Japan PM; they will also hold a roadshow to Sabarmati Ashram. pic.twitter.com/UZpv0ohzFy

— ANI (@ANI) September 13, 2017

Artists of 28 states to display Diversity of Indian culture in a 8KM long Cultural Road Show as hon'ble PM welcomes Japan's PM Mr.@AbeShinzo pic.twitter.com/KODYKk7RP4

— Dr. Mahesh Sharma (@dr_maheshsharma) September 13, 2017

15 Japanese firms to invest in Gujarat, state Chief Secretary JN Singh tells All India Radio News

Watch: Ahmedabad gears up to welcome Shinzo Abe

#Ahmedabad decks up to welcome Japanese PM @AbeShinzo; different performances to be held at 28 locations along the 8km-long road show route pic.twitter.com/DgCXboZXff

— DD News (@DDNewslive) September 13, 2017

Khichdi kari, handvo for Japanese PM

The Japanese prime minister Shinzo Abe and his wife, who are on a two-day tour, will be introduced not only to Gujarati culture but also food. Apart from the regular khichdi kari,the Japanese premier and his wife will be treated with handvo (a vegetarian baked cake) — a favourite also of Narenda Modi.

They will be hosted at the Heritage Hotel of Agashe (meaning terrace) part of the House of Mangaldas,  where they will also get a glimpse of the structures of India’s first world Heritage City. The house of Mangaldas is just opposite to the Syed Siddi ni Jali, one of the oldest mosques of the city.

Varieties of Japanese, Indian cuisine part of platter to be served to Abe, Modi

The Times of India reports that various authentic Japanese and Indian cuisines will be served to Abe and Modi.

Indo-Japanese fusion dishes like sushi-dhokla and sushi-khichdi will also be served to VVIP delegates. The two prime ministers will receive a presidential, sit-down three-plate service with a five-course menu, each course having three sub-courses.

“Miso soup, noodle soup, teriyaki fish, chicken yakitokri (a variety of skewered chicken), pork katsu curry, jasmine rice, sticky rice, tofu served in a variety of sauces and kappa maki sushi, among others, will be part of the menu at our hotel. Special Japanese bento boxes have been created for the delegates,” the report quoted a spokesperson from Courtyard by Marriot as saying.

Two buses set on fire on the eve of Shinzo Abe’s visit

Two civic transport buses were set on fire by unidentified protesters in the Patidar-dominated Kapodra area of Surat on Tuesday evening, according to PTI.

The incident took place after the city police detained some people, allegedly associated with the Patidar Anamat Andolan Samiti (PAAS), the Patel quota agitation body led by Hardik Patel, as they tried to stage protest at Saurashtra Bhavan against BJP leader Rutvij Patel’s programme.

The protesters pelted stones at the police, said Surat Police Commissioner Satish Sharma.

“Some persons created ruckus at the venue and also threw stones at police. They even torched two buses at Hirabaug circle. Luckily, no one was injured. The situation is now under control in Kapodra area as well as rest of the city,” he said.

To bring the situation under control, police used lathi-charge and also detained around 10 persons, said a control room official.

Ahead of road show, performers rehearse in Gujarat

#ModiAbe #Gujarat visit: Dancing troops rehearse before final performances during Modi -Abe cultural road show today. pic.twitter.com/JwEybVjUyr

— All India Radio News (@airnewsalerts) September 13, 2017

BJP rehashes old rhetoric for polls

There is nothing new in Narendra Modi’s two-day sojourn to his home state Gujarat with his Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe and his wife Akie Abe beginning Wednesday afternoon.

Modi has already had 10 meetings with Abe during the last three years and the bilateral India-Japan Annual Summit they are holding on Thursday in Gujarat capital Gandhinagar will be the fourth one between them.

Modi, Abe to visit Sidi Saiyyed mosque

Ahmedabad lit up ahead of PM Modi & Japan PM Shinzō Abe's visit: Pics from Sidi Saiyyed Mosque, to be visited by both the Prime Ministers pic.twitter.com/xs8ljs8Rqs

— Tv9 Gujarati (@tv9gujarati) September 12, 2017

Security tightened in Gujarat ahead of Abe’s visit

Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar, which will host a slew of programmes during the high-profile visit, are all decked up to welcome the foreign dignitary with streets shimmering in fluorescent lights, and hoardings and banners welcoming Abe dotting them.

Robust security arrangements have been put in place for the 12th Indo-Japan Summit and business meet where Japanese companies are likely to announce major investments in Gujarat.

Buddhist monks to receive Shinzo Abe

According to The Times of India, Buddhist monks will receive the Japanese prime minister on his arrival in Ahmedabad.

Buddhist monks at Ahd airport to welcome Japan PM Shinzo Abe who arrives on 2-day Guj visit later in afternoon. pic.twitter.com/VdDKeE1W4G

— TOI Ahmedabad (@TOIAhmedabad) September 13, 2017

Modi-Abe to lay bullet train foundation: A rundown of Railways’ most ambitious project

This isn’t India’s first attempt to ride on high speed trains. In 1989, the then railway minister Madhavrao Scindia proposed a high-speed connection from Delhi to Kanpur via Agra. The project was dropped later.

Nearly 30 years later, India took another step towards high-speed railway, when Gatiman Express from Delhi to Agra was flagged off. Running at 160 kilometers per hour, it is currently India’s fastest train.

How BJP is using Japanese PM’s trip to improve its chances in upcoming polls

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Abe will take part in a road show in Ahmedabad on Wednesday. “This is for the first time in the country when our prime minister along with the prime minister of another country is doing a joint road show. The Japanese prime minister is landing here directly on 13 September. This makes the occasion more important, as he is visiting a state on the very first day of his India visit,” Gujarat BJP unit president Jitubhai Vaghani had told reporters.

As Vaghani pointed, this will indeed be a rare occasion when the head of a State would skip New Delhi during their bilateral visit to India. This fact itself shows how important the Abe’s visit will be for BJP as far as the upcoming Gujarat election is concerned.

Ahmedabad dazzles as it gears up to welcome Shinzo Abe

Ahmedabad decked up ahead of PM Modi & Japan PM Shinzō Abe's visit starting today,will hold a roadshow to Sabarmati Ashram (Last night pix) pic.twitter.com/1njyTNQc2C

— ANI (@ANI) September 13, 2017

Modi, Abe to look mull ways to develop ‘multifaceted cooperation’ between India-Japan

The summit takes place amid rising tension in the Far East after North Korea tested a hydrogen bomb, launched a ballistic missile over Japan, and the growing Chinese assertiveness in the South China Sea.

In a statement on Monday, the MEA said, “The two leaders will review the recent progress in the multifaceted cooperation between India and Japan under the framework of their special strategic and global partnership and will set its future direction.” 

During his visit, Abe will attend the ground breaking ceremony of the Mumbai-Ahmedabad high-speed railway, a flagship programme of the India-Japan collaboration, marking the commencement of the project, also known as bullet train project.

Narendra Modi looks forward to welcoming Shinzo Abe

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said that India truly values its relationship with Japan and he looks forward to welcoming Japanese prime minister Shinzo Abe and hosting him in Gujarat for the fourth annual summit.

Japan prime minister Shinzo Abe will be on a two-day visit to India beginning Wednesday during which the two countries are expected to scale up their strategic cooperation.

The two leaders will hold the 12th India-Japan annual summit in Gujarat during the visit.

I look forward to welcoming PM @AbeShinzo. I will be hosting him in Gujarat in our fourth annual summit together. https://t.co/1gaiLCsem9

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 12, 2017