In a landmark moment for India–Japan relations, Professor (Dr.) C. Raj Kumar, founding vice chancellor of O.P. Jindal Global University (JGU), and Dr. Abhishek M. Singhvi, senior advocate of the Supreme Court of India and member of parliament (Rajya Sabha), addressed members of the Japanese Parliament at the National Diet of Japan during a high-level policy dialogue.

Themed “India and Japan: Partners in Democracy, Drivers of Innovation, and Architects of a Sustainable Future,” the event was organised by the Japanese Parliamentary Committee for World Federation to deepen strategic cooperation between the two nations.

In his remarks, Professor Kumar emphasised the transformative potential of academic diplomacy. “Universities and parliaments must collaborate to shape the future of democracy and development,” he said, calling for enhanced inter-parliamentary dialogue and institutional partnerships. He highlighted education as a bridge between cultures and a force for peace and sustainability.

Dr. Singhvi, addressing the gathering, underscored the civilisational partnership between India and Japan. He advocated for joint leadership in the Indo-Pacific through democratic values, pluralism, and sustainable development. “India and Japan must lead by example—through principled partnerships that prioritise global responsibility,” he stated.

The session was inaugurated by Mr. Seishiro Eto, acting president of the Japanese Parliamentary Committee for World Federation. H.E. Mr. Sibi George, ambassador of India to Japan, also addressed the assembly, expressing appreciation for the growing academic and diplomatic collaboration.

Prominent Japanese officials, including Hon’ble Shingo Miyamoto, director-general, Ministry of Foreign Affairs (South Asia), and Hon’ble Kuniko Inoguchi, member of the House of Councillors and former minister of gender equality, welcomed the Indian delegation. They affirmed strong interest in fostering deeper academic, technological, and cultural linkages.

Over 35 members of the Japanese Diet across political parties participated, showcasing cross-party consensus on strengthening Indo-Japanese relations. Parliamentary experts and members from the Liberal Democratic Party, Constitutional Democratic Party, Democratic Party for the People, Japan Innovation Party, and others were in attendance.

This marks Professor Raj Kumar’s second consecutive address at the National Diet, reaffirming JGU’s leadership in academic diplomacy and commitment to advancing India–Japan ties through education and global dialogue.

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