Manmohan Singh arrives in Tokyo

Tokyo, Oct 24 (ANI) Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh arrived here in capital city of Japan on a three-day State visit during which he will hold bilateral talks with his Japanese counterpart Naoto Kan.

Both the leaders are likely to discuss various issues of region and global concerns.

The Prime Minister would also have several meetings with political leaders, parliamentarians and captains of Japanese trade and industry.

India is expected to announce the conclusion of negotiations on the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with Japan.

Earlier in the day, in his departure statement, issued ahead of his departure on a three-nation tour to Japan, Malaysia and Vietnam, Dr. Manmohan Singh described Japan as one of India's major economic partners, and added that bilateral trade and economic relationship is all set to enter a new phase.

He said the annual summit with Japan has resulted in a strong vibrant and multi-dimensional relationship between the two countries.

"We have embarked upon mega infrastructure projects with Japanese assistance which have the potential of transforming our economy. Our trade and economic relationship is set to enter a new phase. I look forward to detailed discussions with Prime Minister Kan on bilateral, regional and global issues," he added.

After his Japan visit from Oct.24 to 26, Dr. Singh will proceed from here to Malaysia and later Vietnam for ASEAN-India and East Asia Summits. By Naveen Kapoor (ANI)