Yogi Adityanath urges Indian, Japanese students to deepen youth partnership

Lucknow, August 21, 2026; Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Friday called for stronger educational and cultural exchanges between young people in India and Japan, saying meaningful ties between the two countries would depend increasingly on the next generation.

The Chief Minister made the remarks during an interaction in Lucknow with Yamanashi Governor Kotaro Nagasaki, 13 Japanese school students and 20 students from schools in the city.

Yogi Adityanath said that schools, universities and other learning spaces can play an important role in bringing young people from both countries closer. He encouraged the students to understand one another’s traditions, values and aspirations while building friendships that could continue beyond their current exchange programme.

Referring to the approaching 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Japan, the Chief Minister said the partnership offered considerable opportunities for young people in both nations. He highlighted Japan’s technological capabilities, discipline and emphasis on teamwork alongside India’s large pool of young talent.

He said such cooperation could create opportunities across fields including science, technology, sports, arts, public policy and leadership.

The Chief Minister also drew attention to India’s philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, describing it as consistent with the broader idea of cooperation and shared progress. He linked the principle with the vision of inclusive development represented by “Sabka Sath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas”.

During the interaction, Yogi Adityanath spoke about Uttar Pradesh’s cultural and spiritual heritage and referred to the Japanese students’ ongoing tour. Their itinerary included Agra and the Taj Mahal, while Ayodhya, Varanasi and Sarnath were also highlighted as important destinations in the state.

He described Uttar Pradesh as an important destination for spiritual and cultural tourism, noting the significance of Ayodhya and Sarnath in India’s religious and historical heritage.

Yamanashi Governor Kotaro Nagasaki also stressed the value of cooperation between students from India and Japan. He encouraged the young participants to develop a spirit of collaboration and contribute to building stronger relations between the two countries.

The exchange comes as India and Japan prepare to mark 75 years of diplomatic relations, with youth engagement emerging as an important avenue for expanding people-to-people connections between the two nations.