Ono Keiichi, the Japanese ambassador to India, made a noteworthy trip to Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, on July 5, 2025. Ambassador Keiichi prayed in Hanumangarhi and Shri Ram Janmabhoomi, two of the city’s most sacred locations, while he was there.
He was photographed wearing traditional garlands and a ‘teeka’, which signify respect and involvement in local customs, together with his diplomatic staff. The ambassador’s admiration for Indian culture and the value of spiritual diplomacy in promoting bilateral ties were demonstrated by this gesture.
Ambassador Keiichi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath met at a high level in Lucknow prior to the Ayodhya tour. The two leaders talked about ways that Japan and Uttar Pradesh may work together more closely, with an emphasis on tourism, technology, investment, and human resource development. Referencing the Japanese custom of the daruma doll, Ambassador Keiichi emphasized the spirit of cooperation by declaring his plan to mark the right eye as a pledge of partnership, with the left eye to be completed upon the achievement of their common objectives.
According to Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, the meeting was productive and significant, demonstrating both parties’ dedication to advancing relations between the state of Uttar Pradesh and Japan. In addition to participating in formal talks, the ambassador embraced Lucknow’s cultural diversity by indulging in regional food, such as Hyderabadi Mutton Biryani and Awadhi specialties.
The visit by Ambassador Keiichi was part of larger diplomatic and business endeavors. More than 200 people from more than 70 companies attended the “Conference of Battery and Critical Minerals Ecosystem,” which was held on July 3 at the Japanese Embassy in New Delhi. As part of continuous attempts to improve India-Japan economic ties, the event sought to promote cooperation in the vital minerals industry. This issue was also a major focus of the 48th Joint Meeting of the India-Japan Business Cooperation Committee (IJBCC) and the Japan-India Business Cooperation Committee (JIBCC), which was held in New Delhi earlier in March.
Japan’s dedication to social progress and inclusivity is further demonstrated by Ambassador Keiichi’s visit to the Indian Blind and Para Judo Association in Lucknow. In his interactions with athletes, he showed support for their goals and the principles of excellence and fair play. Japan’s continued support of parasports and the empowerment of athletes with disabilities in India is demonstrated by the ambassador’s involvement with the association.
The recent trips to Uttar Pradesh and New Delhi by Ambassador Ono Keiichi are a prime example of the diverse and expanding relationship between Japan and India. His social, cultural, and economic activities highlight a common goal of cooperation, growth, and respect between the two countries.
