Japan’s growing ties with south Asia: a new era of collaboration and diplomacy
In a thought-provoking discussion organized by the Center for Diplomacy and Development, Kathmandu, in collaboration with the Japan Foundation, New Delhi, Nepali intellectuals and guests from India and Bangladesh gathered to deliberate on the rising emphasis on a Free and Open Indo-Pacific and its implications for Japan’s growing ties with South Asia. The event highlighted the multifaceted collaboration between Japan and South Asia, particularly in areas such as green energy, digital technology, and sustainable development, which are poised to deepen the regional partnerships in the coming years.
Japan’s historical connections with South Asia span several decades, marked by mutual respect and cooperation in trade, culture, and strategy. The discussions delved into how Japan has increasingly contributed to regional development through economic partnerships, cultural exchanges, and strategic collaborations.
Ambassador Mohan Krishna Shrestha, Chairman of the Center for Diplomacy and Development, opened the session with a reflection on the early ties between Japan and South Asia, emphasizing the pivotal role of Buddhism in their relationship. “Japanese monks and scholars have long traveled to India and Sri Lanka to study Buddhist scriptures, forging a foundation for strong cultural and diplomatic relations,” he said. Ambassador Shrestha further noted that after Japan’s recovery from World War II, South Asia was one of the first regions to offer diplomatic recognition and support, marking the beginning of a robust partnership.
The economic ties between Japan and South Asia have grown steadily, with Japan emerging as a significant trading partner. Japan exports machinery, electronics, and automobiles to South Asian countries while importing textiles, raw materials, and food products. Renowned Japanese corporations, such as Toyota, Honda, and Suzuki, have established manufacturing plants in India and other parts of South Asia, further cementing these economic ties.
Professor Mina Vaidya Malla, Program Officer at the Japan Foundation in New Delhi, provided a deeper insight into Japan’s support for South Asia through Official Development Assistance (ODA). “Japan has been one of the largest aid donors to South Asia, offering support without imposing stringent conditions. Major Japanese-funded projects include the Delhi Metro, infrastructure initiatives in Bangladesh like the Matarbari Port project, and vital energy and resilience projects in Nepal,” she said.
Dr. Abdullah-Al-Mamun, Executive Director of the Pan Asia Research Institute in Japan, discussed the cultural and educational exchanges that have also played a crucial role in strengthening ties between Japan and South Asia. Programs like the Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Program, which brings South Asian youth to Japan, and scholarships attracting South Asian students to Japanese universities, have expanded Japan’s soft power influence. Dr. Mamun noted the growing popularity of Japanese pop culture, including anime and manga, in South Asia, alongside an increasing interest in South Asian art, cuisine, and literature in Japan.
The strategic dynamics of the region were also a key topic of discussion. Dr. Mamun pointed out the delicate balance that South Asian countries, including Nepal, must maintain in their relations with China, especially in light of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). He emphasized that for both Japan and Nepal, managing this balance is crucial for regional stability and diplomacy.
In conclusion, the discussions underscored Japan’s rising influence in South Asia, driven by a commitment to sustainable development, economic collaboration, and cultural exchange. As the region grapples with geopolitical shifts and the growing presence of China, Japan’s role in strengthening partnerships in South Asia is likely to become even more pivotal in the years ahead.
