Japanese Ambassador Enoki meets Modi

Ahmedabad, Nov 20 (UNI) Japanese Ambassador Yasukuni Enoki today told Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi of his government's desire to further strengthen trade relations with the state.

Narendra Modi.

Referring to the forthcoming 'Vibrant Gujarat' meet next January, Mr Modi elaborated on the development of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) in the state, an official release here said.

He offered a special SEZ to Japan, that could be developed by Japanese expertise. The interest shown by the Japanese government and Japanese promoters of industrial companies reflects that country's desire to be part of the forthcoming Global Investors Summit here, Mr Modi said.

Mr Enoki, who was visiting Gujarat for the first time, praised the fast-paced industrial and economic development and the availability of modern infrastructural facilities in the state. He also invited Mr Modi to visit Japan, and enquired about the Gujarat SEZ Act and the process of setting up of SEZs, the release said.

The Chief Minister explained the steps taken to boost tourism in the state including upgradation of Buddhist shrines and their preservation.

They also discussed about a direct flight between Tokyo and Ahmedabad and the establishment of a 'knowledge corridor'.

Among those who assisted Mr Modi in the discussion were his advisor S K Shelat, Chief Secretary Sudhir Mankad, Naoyoshi Noguchi, director general, Japan External Trade Organisation (JETRO), Industry Secretary D Rajagopal, Tourism Corporation managing director P D Vaghela and IndextB managing director Bhagyesh Jha.

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