Japan–India International Exchange Symposium 2026 to Deepen Tourism and Cultural Cooperation

Japan–India International Exchange Symposium 2026, to be held in New Delhi on May 28, emerges as a timely platform to advance dialogue on tourism, cultural diplomacy, and international cooperation. Organized by the JTTRI, the symposium brings together influential policymakers, diplomats, and thought leaders to explore how human connectivity can shape a more resilient and inclusive future for the two nations.

On May 28, 2026, New Delhi will host the Japan–India International Exchange Symposium, organized by the Japan Transport and Tourism Research Institute (JTTRI). The event, held in hybrid format, marks a milestone in the evolving partnership between India and Japan, placing people-to-people exchange, tourism, and cultural cooperation at the heart of bilateral relations.

A Symposium of Strategic Significance

The symposium will bring together distinguished leaders and experts, including N.K. Singh, Chairman of India’s 15th Finance Commission, and Kenji Hiramatsu, former Ambassador of Japan to India. Their keynote addresses will underscore the importance of building resilient networks of trust across public and private stakeholders, especially as both nations navigate a rapidly changing Indo-Pacific landscape.

The symposium will open with remarks by SHUKURI Masafumi, Chairman of JTTRI, setting the tone for cooperation and trust and is expected to be followed by greetings from ONO Keiichi, Ambassador of Japan to India, highlighting the strategic importance of the bilateral relationship in the Indo-Pacific.

Panel Insights

Panel 1: The Significance, Challenges, and Future Prospects of International Exchanges

• Moderator: Indrani Bagchi, CEO, Ananta Centre

• Panelists:

  • Ambassador Shyam Saran, Former Foreign Secretary, Ministry of External Affairs; President, India International Centre

  • Deepa G. Wadhwa, Former Ambassador to Japan; Member, Governing Council, Asian Confluence

  • Ariyoshi Takashi, Minister & Deputy Chief of Mission, Embassy of Japan in India

  • Mizutori Mami, Distinguished Visiting Fellow, Institute for International Strategy, Japan Research Institute; Professor, Tohoku University

Panel 2: The Roles of Tourism and Cultural Policies in Driving International Exchanges

• Moderator: Kenji Hiramatsu, Former Ambassador to India

• Panelists:

  • Dr. Jyotsna Suri, Chairperson & Managing Director, The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group

  • Shigeki Murata, Commissioner, Japan Tourism Agency

  • Suman Billa, Additional Secretary & Director General, Ministry of Tourism

JTTRI’s India Office Marks a New Chapter

A major announcement expected during the symposium is JTTRI’s plan to establish a new India Office in 2026. This initiative reflects Tokyo’s recognition of India’s rising global presence and the need to institutionalize cooperation in areas ranging from tourism to academic exchange.

Registration Details for Online and On-Site Participation

🔹 Online Participation

Delegates worldwide are invited to join virtually. Register here: Online Registration

🔹 On-Site Participation

Seats at The Lalit New Delhi are limited and reserved for relevant stakeholders. Approval will be based on the relevance of the organization and interest in the symposium themes.

To request on-site registration, please email: JTTRI-Symposium2026@ijkakehashi.com with the following details:

1. Name of the participant

2. Name of the organization

3. Participant’s title

4. Phone number

5. Email address

6. Short profile of the organization

For general inquiries, contact: collo2@jttri.or.jp

Why People-to-People Diplomacy Matters in the Indo-Pacific

The symposium is not just about bilateral ties — it is about shaping the future of global partnerships. In an era of multipolarity, people-to-people diplomacy is emerging as the most resilient foundation for international cooperation. By investing in cultural exchange, tourism, and education, India and Japan are demonstrating that trust and connectivity are as vital as trade and defense in building a stable world order.

Conclusion

The Japan–India International Exchange Symposium 2026 highlights a profound truth: the strength of nations lies not only in their economies or militaries, but in the bonds between their people. As India and Japan deepen their partnership, they are offering a model for how countries can navigate complexity, foster inclusivity, and build a sustainable multipolar future.

 

About JTTRI

The Japan Transport and Tourism Research Institute (JTTRI) is dedicated to producing useful and usable research results through cooperative efforts that build human networks across public and private stakeholders. JTTRI emphasizes the importance of establishing trust-based relationships with foreign countries, particularly in South Asia. India, as one of Japan’s key partners in the Indo-Pacific region, is central to JTTRI’s mission of fostering sustainable growth, cultural exchange, and resilient international cooperation.