Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ongoing visit to Japan is drawing attention well beyond formal diplomatic circles, highlighted by industrialist Baba Kalyani’s compelling recollection of the Prime Minister’s nuanced approach to cultural diplomacy and his efforts to position India as an attractive destination for investment.
In a video shared by the X account Modi Story, which documents PM Modi’s leadership journey, Baba Kalyani recounted a notable episode from one of the Prime Minister’s earlier trips to Japan.
Leading a delegation of Indian industrialists at the time, PM Modi employed a thoughtful, symbolic gesture designed to resonate with Japanese business norms, which place high value on unity and collective action.
"We were around 30 to 40 Indian business leaders in a room with more than 300 Japanese CEOs," Kalyani said.
"Narendra Modi turned to us and said, 'Stand up. Tell them that India is ready for business. That we have a red carpet ready for you.'"
The beauty of the gesture — all of the Indian delegation standing together and extending a sincere invitation to invest in India — resonated deeply with the Japanese crowd.
Kalyani pointed out how PM Modi took special care to note the cultural import of group symbolism in Japan and used that knowledge to send a strong message of commitment and welcome.
"It was a moment of cultural alignment. The Japanese saw seriousness, commitment, and unity. That's what left an impression," Kalyani added.
Ever since that moment, Japanese investment in India has continued to increase.
This anecdote, now gaining traction online, is being cited as a testament to PM Modi’s blend of strategic foresight and cultural intelligence — qualities he has consistently demonstrated, from his tenure as Gujarat’s Chief Minister to his current role as India’s Prime Minister.
During his most recent trip to Japan, PM Modi held summit talks with Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, further strengthening the India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership.
Major deliverables of the visit were that Japan pledged to invest 10 trillion yen (around Rs 60,000 crore) in India in the coming 10 years, a new framework for defence cooperation, and a 10-year action plan to increase economic cooperation.
Referring to the importance of the bilateral relationship in Tokyo on Friday, PM Modi stated, "India-Japan cooperation is crucial for global peace, stability, and prosperity. Together, we are unfolding a new and golden chapter in our partnership."
As India remains to receive foreign investment and establish strong international partnerships, such moments highlight how PM Modi marries economic vision with personal diplomacy, tailoring messages that speak not just in boardrooms but also across cultures and borders.
Read also| Xi Jinping Greets World Leaders in Tianjin Ahead of SCO Summit
