HT Bureau
GUWAHATI, Jan 22: Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Wednesday met at least 160 industry leaders in Tokyo and called them to invest in Assam.
The chief minister also argued that Japan has been collaborating in a series of ongoing projects in the state and the government is looking forward to extending the collaboration in the upcoming days. He stated that with active support from Japanese technologies, the longest River bridge is coming up in Phulbari in Assam.
“Had a very engaging Day 1 in Japan where I had meetings with over 160 industry leaders and outlined our vision of Simplicity, Transparency, Efficiency and Effective Policy to attract investments into Assam. In several of Assam’s developmental efforts in infrastructure, healthcare, skilling etc. Japan is already partnering with Assam. India’s upcoming longest river bridge in Phulbari is also being built with Japanese assistance,” Sarma wrote on X.
Sarma also mentioned that in the last few years, Assam has seen tremendous development in terms of industrial growth.
“In recent years, Assam has taken giant strides in ensuring large scale investments to the State and has earmarked $3 billion for production linked incentives. Japan is a natural partner in Assam’s pursuit of growth and development”, he stated.
Sarma has invited the top industry players in Japan to explore Assam as a favourable destination for the investment.
“Assam is inviting businesses to invest in the State based on 3 solid fundamentals- Simplicity, Transparency & Efficiency. We’re following these principles and encouraging new age industries to set their bases and offering them customised sops,” he avowed.
Sarma also met Eiji Hosoi, president & CEO of Toyo Engineering Corporation and asked him to to explore opportunities in renewable energy.
“Grateful to Mr. Eiji Hosoi, President & CEO of Toyo Engineering Corporation for hosting me at the company’s Tokyo headquarters. Toyo’s vast experience in energy and Assam’s innate advantages in the sector can lead to better solutions for sustainable growth. I’ve asked them to explore opportunities in renewable energy at the upcoming #AdvantageAssam2 summit,” the chief minister added.
Later, Sarma held a meeting with Japan minister of economy Yuichiro San where he discussed establishing centres for skill workers.
“It was an absolute pleasure to meet Mr Koga Yuichiro San, State Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry, Government of Japan. I have conveyed Assam’s readiness to establish a business park dedicated to Japanese firms. During my meeting, I requested the Government of Japan to consider setting up testing centres for Technical Intern Training and Specified Skill Workers programs, so that our youth have better access to short-term work opportunities in Japan. I am grateful to the Hon’ble Minister for his time and for his support to our vision of #AdvantageAssam2,” Sarma said.
Earlier in the day, the chief minister was welcomed in Tokyo by the Assamese diaspora.
“Grateful to the Assamese diaspora in Tokyo who welcomed me with warm hearts and some delicious pithas. Their energy, love and unwavering connection to Assam are truly inspiring,” Sarma wrote on X.