Joint Statement on Prime Minister's visit to Thailand , May 30 , 2013

At the invitation of the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Thailand, H.E. Ms. Yingluck Shinawatra, the Prime Minister of the Republic of India, H.E. Dr. Manmohan Singh, paid an Official Visit to Thailand from 30-31 May 2013. He was accompanied by the Minister of External Affairs, a high level official and media delegation.
The Prime Minister of India presented a sapling of the sacred Bodhi Tree in Bodh Gaya as a special gift to His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej as a symbol of the shared cultural heritage between India and Thailand.
The official talks between Thailand and India were held on 30 May 2013 in a warm, cordial and friendly atmosphere, reflecting the excellent bilateral relations and friendship that exist between the two countries. Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra hosted an official banquet in honour of Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh and the Indian delegation.
The two Prime Ministers held wide-ranging discussions on bilateral, regional and multilateral issues of mutual interest. They reviewed the progress made in recent years on building a stronger, broader and deeper relationship across the range of Thailand-India interests, based on shared historical, religious and cultural ties. They also noted with satisfaction that Thailand and India have developed a strong and mutually beneficial cooperation at bilateral, regional and multilateral levels and have played a significant role in fostering cooperation, contributing to socio-economic development, peace and stability in the region.
They agreed that, while substantial progress has been made, there was considerable potential for expanding the relationship further. Thailand’s ‘Look West’ and India’s ‘Look East’ policies will be pivotal for the development of the Thailand-India relationship towards a strategic partnership. Both sides also agreed that the visit has imparted greater momentum to the on-going bilateral ties.

Economic, Trade and Investment Cooperation

The two Prime Ministers took note with satisfaction that the bilateral trade between Thailand and India has grown significantly in recent years. Over the past five years, trade between Thailand and India increased at over 15% per annum. Last year, bilateral trade crossed USD 8.6 billion. Both sides hoped that bilateral trade would continue to further expand for the mutual benefit and sustainable economic growth of both countries.
The two Prime Ministers appreciated the growth in investment between Thailand and India in recent years, which has contributed to economic growth and job creation in both countries. Last year, Thailand’s Board of Investment approved 25 Indian projects which were worth over USD 200 Million. Meanwhile, investment in India by the Thai private sector is growing steadily. FDI inflows from Thailand to India were over USD 12 million last year. They welcomed the new initiatives taken to facilitate and increase the flow of investments between the two countries.
India invited participation of the Thai private sector in India’s plans to modernize and upgrade manufacturing and infrastructure sectors, especially in Delhi-Mumbai and Chennai-Bangalore Industrial Corridors, the Buddhist circuit and the North-East States of India. India also welcomed Thai investment particularly in sectors such as ports and highways, electronics, automobile components, food processing and power generation, as well as tourism and hospitality facilities. India expressed its interest in participating in mega transport and infrastructure development projects in Thailand.
The two Prime Ministers welcomed establishment of Thailand-India Business Forum with the involvement of the private sector to stimulate expansion of bilateral trade and investments, and facilitate business partnerships. They expressed the hope that the Thailand-India Business Forum will expand the existing ties between private sectors in the two countries.
In order to further create a supportive atmosphere for trade and investment promotion as well as to facilitate travel of business persons of both countries, the two sides agreed to provide fast track business visa service to the qualified entrepreneurs of each other’s countries.
The two Prime Ministers underscored the need to have an institutional arrangement on the social security benefits of the workers in each other’s countries, which will facilitate labour mobility and investments between the two countries. Both sides noted with satisfaction the positive discussions on Social Security Agreement between the two countries that would facilitate and streamline the movement of professionals and workers and expressed the hope that this agreement would be finalized at an early date. In this connection, they agreed to discuss a proposal for the establishment of a framework to enable regulated deployment of labour from India into the required sectors in Thailand.
The two Prime Ministers reaffirmed their strong commitment to achieve a comprehensive and balanced outcome of the Thailand-India FTA negotiations. Both sides appreciated the progress made in the negotiations since the last round held in New Delhi in November 2012. Given the emerging convergence on most issues, both sides expressed hope that the negotiations be concluded soon after the next round of negotiations in June-July 2013 in Bangkok. The Prime Ministers advised their respective negotiators to show the required flexibility in concluding the long pending negotiations to give a further fillip to the bilateral trade which has shown healthy growth even during the current economic slowdown.
They welcomed the successful conclusion of the negotiations on the ASEAN-India Agreement on Trade in Services and the Agreement on Investment under the broader framework of Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA) between India and the ASEAN.
They also agreed that the BIMSTEC FTA will be beneficial to the region and encouraged the BIMSTEC members to accelerate the negotiations with an aim to concluding the negotiations at the earliest opportunity.

Connectivity

The two Prime Ministers emphasized the importance of enhancing connectivity between the two countries through regional cooperation and the development of road and shipping infrastructure linking Thailand and India. They welcomed the setting up of the Thailand-India Joint Working Group on Connectivity and Infrastructure to help expedite cooperation on connectivity initiatives in both countries as well as in third countries. They took note of the fruitful outcomes of the first meeting held in New Delhi in September 2012, including the possibilities for cooperation on the Dawei Deep Sea Port and Special Economic Zone projects.
Both leaders reaffirmed the importance of the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway Project, as it would greatly enhance the connectivity between the Mekong sub-region and India. They also noted that the Joint Task Force Meeting on the Trilateral Highway, held in New Delhi in September 2012 agreed to make all efforts to complete the trilateral road connectivity by 2016. The meeting also emphasized the necessity to develop the infrastructure to ensure fast and seamless transit along the Trilateral Highway as well as an increase in trade, investment, services and tourism activities.
In this connection, the Indian side welcomed Thailand’s proposal to host the next India–Myanmar–Thailand Joint Task Force Meeting on the Trilateral Highway Project, as well as the second Meeting of the Thailand-India Joint Working Group on Connectivity and Infrastructure in June-July 2013.
The Thai side proposed to host the Third India-Myanmar-Thailand Ministerial Meeting on Transport Linkages to address the issues of infrastructure and facilitation. This is aimed at maximizing the utilization of the Trilateral Highway as a means of strengthening regional economic growth and integration. Thailand will liaise with India and Myanmar regarding the appropriate date for the Meeting.
The Thai side informed the Indian side of the progress that Thailand and Myanmar have made on the project for the development of the Dawei Special Economic Zone in southern Myanmar, which, once operational, would further enhance regional connectivity including port-to-port linkages with India and open enormous business opportunities for the region. In this regard, the Thai side invited the Indian business sector to invest in the Dawei Special Economic Zone, especially in the areas where Indian companies have expertise, such as steel, manufacturing, power, petrochemicals, services and others. Thailand welcomed India's invitation to organize a road show in India in this respect later this year.
Both sides noted with satisfaction that connectivity between India and Thailand through aviation has developed continuously and increased significantly. There are currently around 150 flights between Thailand and India per week. The two Prime Ministers welcomed new air routes by Thai Airways connecting Bangkok with Ahmedabad as well as Phuket - Delhi and Phuket - Mumbai. They also expressed their support for more air connections between both countries.

Security and Defence

The two Prime Ministers appreciated the close interactions and regular exchanges between the Armed Forces of Thailand and India including the official visit of the Thai Defence Minister to India in December 2012, the conduct of the Defence Dialogue in February 2013 and the regular Coordinated Patrol (CORPATs) conducted by the Indian Navy and the Royal Thai Navy. The Thai side also welcomed the visit of the Indian Defence Minister to Thailand in June 2013. Both sides agreed to enhance anti-piracy cooperation, promote security of sea lanes and Coast Guard cooperation to contribute to the maintenance of peace in the region and to work towards ensuring safety and security of navigation in the Indian Ocean. Both sides agreed to continue providing scholarships and training programmes for the sharing of expertise.
Thailand expressed interest in India’s defence industry, which has competitive production and advanced technology. Both countries agreed to pursue defence industry collaboration in areas of mutual interest.
They also welcomed the deepening of cooperation through the Joint Working Group on Security Cooperation. The 7th India-Thailand JWG on Security Cooperation, held in Thailand in July 2012, agreed to expedite the implementation of the five-year programme finalized by the Joint Working Group. Progress on the implementation of the Work Programme will be reported at the next JWG meeting, to be hosted by India.
The two Prime Ministers welcomed the signing of the bilateral Extradition Treaty which would provide a legal basis for bilateral cooperation in dealing with elements acting against national interests. Both leaders reiterated their resolve to significantly enhance bilateral cooperation in combating terrorism, organized crime, drug trafficking, counterfeiting and human trafficking. They agreed to strengthen cooperation in the field of counter terrorism and intelligence sharing through expedited follow-up of each other’s requests for legal assistance.

Science and Technology

The two Prime Ministers acknowledged the significance of cooperation in science and technology. Exchanges of technology, R&D, education and skills are encouraged to broaden ties between the scientific and technological communities of both governments. The leaders noted the importance of continued cooperation and declared their commitment to improve coordination in science and technology.
Both leaders acknowledged the progress made under the Programme of Cooperation in the field of science and technology and welcomed the implementation of joint research projects. They agreed that capacity building and joint projects on space application under existing institutional arrangements and agreements such as ‘urban mapping’, ‘agriculture crop mapping’ and ‘archaeological atlas’ would help in the betterment of lives of the people of the two countries.

Culture, Education and People-to-People Exchange

Both countries agreed to deepen cultural and historical ties between the two countries by promoting diverse cultural exchanges. Both sides welcomed the setting up of the Thailand-India Exchange Programme which would help accelerate people-to-people contacts in cultural and other fields benefiting both societies. Both sides agreed to further promote exchanges among parliamentarians, academicians, scientists, artists and intellectuals.
Recognizing the significance of educational collaboration, the two Prime Ministers agreed to promote more student exchanges at all levels and expressed interest in further enhancing the mobility and exchange of students between India and Thailand. The Thai side noted with appreciation that India would continue to offer 90 scholarships under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC), 26 scholarships under the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) and scholarships under AYUSH each year. Both sides noted with satisfaction the contribution of the ICCR Chair for Sanskrit Studies at Silpakorn University and welcomed the decision to establish an ICCR Chair for Hindi at Thammasat University, which has offered a Bachelor of Arts programme in Indian Studies for the first time this year while other universities in Thailand continue to offer Indian Studies courses.
The two Prime Ministers noted that institutional links between the two countries are progressing very well. They welcomed the increase in direct university to university collaboration and progress in the realisation of the shared goal of making the modern Nalanda University an international institution of excellence. India appreciated the Government of Thailand's contribution of USD 100,000 to the University's Establishment Fund, as well as contributions totalling more than USD 33,000 by Thailand's private sector, particularly those having investments in India, to the Thailand Fund for Nalanda University. The private contributions will be used to finance students and academicians pursuing Buddhist Studies, Philosophy and Comparative Religion.
Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to promote Thailand-India cultural exchanges. Thailand welcomed activities by the Indian Cultural Centre in Bangkok, which had been enhancing Thai citizens’ understanding of the Indian culture.
Both sides discussed the implementation of the bilateral Cultural Exchange Programme for 2012-14, and in this connection welcomed the offer by the Indian Museum in Kolkata to hold a major exhibition on Buddhist art in Bangkok in collaboration with National Museum of Thailand.
People-to-people links are central to the relationship between Thailand and India. The two Prime Ministers reaffirmed that both countries welcomed all legitimate travellers, including tourists, students, workers and monks. In this context, they expressed satisfaction over the progress made in the first two meetings of the ad hoc Thailand-India Joint Working Group on Visa and Consular Matters to facilitate and encourage people-to-people contact between the two countries in addressing issues related to travel, visa facilitation, the safety of tourists and employment with a view to achieve mutually satisfactory solutions.

Regional and Multilateral Cooperation

The two sides expressed their desire to further deepen their valued partnership and cooperation in the context of ASEAN-India strategic partnership as well as BIMSTEC. Both sides agreed to foster regional ties, particularly through the enhancement of economic, scientific, educational and technical cooperation.
Both leaders reiterated their commitment to development projects and capacity building in the lower Mekong region through the Mekong-Ganga Cooperation (MGC). In this context, both leaders supported the setting up of the MGC Asian Traditional Textiles Museum in Siem Reap, Cambodia. They also endorsed the usefulness of the India-CLMV Quick Impact Project Fund to give a fillip to short gestation projects under MGC.
The two sides acknowledged that the Leaders-led East Asia Summit can play a significant role as a forum for building an open, inclusive, transparent and participative architecture of regional cooperation in Asia and the Pacific to promote peace, stability and prosperity in the region.
The two Prime Ministers noted with appreciation the close cooperation between Thailand and India in various international fora and agreed to further enhance their cooperation in the United Nations and other international fora on matters of mutual interest.
The two Prime Ministers welcomed the Doha Gateway outcome of the 18th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and emphasized the need to work closely for a balanced outcome under the Durban Platform in accordance with the principles of Common but Differentiated Responsibilities and Equity. They welcomed the outcome of the UN Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio+20) in June 2012 which reaffirmed the Rio Principles and made political commitment towards sustainable development and poverty eradication. The two leaders expressed their hope that the post-2015 Development Agenda would focus on development, economic growth and poverty eradication, preserve the national policy space and priorities of developing countries and provide the necessary means of implementation to developing countries.
The two leaders reiterated their strong support for the ongoing reform of the United Nations and its principal organs with a view to making the United Nations more democratic, transparent and efficient so that it can deal more effectively with the myriad challenges of the contemporary world. They emphasized the importance of an early reform of the United Nations Security Council so that it reflects the contemporary realities and functions in a more accountable, representative and effective manner. The Thai side acknowledged India's credentials for permanent membership of the UN Security Council. The two leaders commended each other’s active role, continued constructive contributions and cooperation in the field of international peace and security.
The following agreements were signed during the visit: -
Extradition Treaty.
MoU on the Establishment of the Thailand-India Exchange Programme.
MOU between Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency and Survey of India for cooperation in the field of Mapping and Geospatial Technology Applications.
MOU between Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency, Thailand and National Atlas and Thematic Mapping Organization, India for cooperation in the field of Mapping and Geospatial Technology Applications.
MOU between Financial Intelligence Unit, India and Anti Money Laundering Organization, Thailand on Cooperation in the exchange of Financial Intelligence related to Money Laundering and Terrorism Financing.
MOU on Establishment of Hindi Chair at Thammasat University.
Procès-verbal of Exchange of Instrument of Ratification of the Treaty on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. 
Both sides agreed to hold the next meeting of the Joint Commission at the level of Foreign Minister later this year in Bangkok to review the sector-wise progress and to identify new areas of cooperation.
The Prime Minister of India expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra, the Royal Thai Government and the people of Thailand for the warm welcome and cordial hospitality extended to him and to the members of his delegation during his Official Visit. 

Bangkok
30 May 2013

List of documents signed during Prime Minister's visit to Thailand , May 2013

1. Treaty Between The Republic of India and The Kingdom of Thailand On Extradition Salman Khurshid, Minister of External Affairs Surapong Tovichakchaikul, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs The Treaty provides the legal framework for seeking extradition of fugitive offenders, including those involved in terrorism, transnational crimes, economic offences etc. Treaty provides for the extradition of any person who is wanted for trial or for the imposition or enforcement of a sentence by one Contracting State and is found in the territory of the other Contracting State. This will help both the countries in expedited extradition of fugitives. This Treaty would further strengthen the relationship between two law enforcement agencies by providing a firm legal basis for their bilateral cooperation.
2. Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republic of India and the Government of the Kingdom of Thailand on the Establishment of the India - Thailand Exchange Programme Salman Khurshid, Minister of External Affairs Surapong Tovichakchaikul  Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs . India-Thailand Exchange Programme will foster bilateral relations through the enhancement of economic, scientific, educational, technical and cultural cooperation and the promotion of greater understanding between the peoples of the two countries. Cooperative activities in the fields of education and culture through exchange of scholars, academicians, professionals; organizing seminars, workshops; extending financial support to non-governmental organizations; publication of standard works on Thailand-India relations; translations of standard works of Thai Literature into Indian languages, will be promoted.
3. Procèss Verbal on Exchange of Instrument of Ratification of the Treaty on Transfer of Sentenced persons. Salman Khurshid, Minister of External Affairs Surapong Tovichakchaikul,  Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs The bilateral Treaty on Transfer of Sentenced Persons, signed on 25 January 2012, has been ratified by both sides. The Treaty provides the opportunity to foreign nationals, who have been convicted and sentenced on a criminal offence, to serve their sentence in their own country and facilitates their social rehabilitation into their own countries.
4. MOU between Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency and Survey of India for cooperation in the field of Mapping and Geospatial Technology Applications. Anil Wadhwa, Ambassador of India to the Kingdom of Thailand Anond Snidvongs, Executive Director, Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency . The objective of MoU is to promote bilateral cooperation in the field of Space Technology for the mutual benefit in a project titled "Indo-Thai Geo Spatial Cooperation”, in pursuance of the Programme of Cooperation in the field of Science & Technology for 2012-2014. The MoU seeks to share and demonstrate capabilities and expertise gained by the Survey of India in Urban Mapping by undertaking survey of a chosen town of area about 100 sq.km., in Thailand, and for imparting training in surveying and mapping techniques to five officials of GISTDA each year at the Indian Institute of Surveying and Mapping (IISM) at Hyderabad.
5. MOU between Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency and National Atlas and Thematic Organization for cooperation in the field of Mapping and Geospatial Technology Applications. Anil Wadhwa Ambassador of India to the Kingdom of Thailand Anond Snidvongs, Executive Director, Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency The objective of the project is to publish an Archeological Atlas, in book and digital form, jointly by NATMO and GISTDA with thematic plates using high-resolution satellite data and geospatial technologies, to highlight the spread of Buddhism from India to the South-East Asia, on the occasions of Her Royal Highness Princess Mahachakri Sirindhon Birthday Anniversary in 2015 and the ASEAN Economic Community in 2015. The proposed project will include India and participating ASEAN countries.
6. MoU between Financial Intelligence Unit, India and Anti Money Laundering Organization, Thailand on Cooperation in the exchange of Intelligence related to Money Laundering and Terrorism Financing . Anil Wadhwa, Ambassador of India to the Kingdom of Thailand Seehanat Prayoonrat, Secretary General, Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO) The MoU will facilitate cooperation in the investigation of persons suspected of money laundering and criminal activity related to money laundering and terrorism financing. The MoU seeks to assemble, develop, analyze and exchange information on such issues.
7. MOU between Indian Council for Cultural Relations and Thammasat University on the establishment of the ICCR Hindi Chair of Indian Studies (Hindi Language). Anil Wadhwa, Ambassador of India to the Kingdom of Thailand Prof. Dr. Somkit Lertpaithoon, Rector of Thammasat University The objective of MoU is to establish the ICCR Chair for Hindi Language at the Thammasat University. This Chair will offer a Bachelor of Arts programme in Indian Studies for the first time in Thailand.

Bangkok
30 May, 2013

Joint Statement on Prime Minister's visit to Japan: Strengthening the Strategic and Global Partnership between India and Japan beyond the 60th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations

1. The Prime Minister of India, H.E. Dr. Manmohan Singh, is currently on an Official Working Visit to Japan on 27-30 May 2013 for the Annual Summit of the Prime Ministers at the invitation of the Prime Minister of Japan, H.E. Mr. Shinzo Abe. The two Prime Ministers held extensive talks on bilateral, regional and global issues on 29 May 2013 in Tokyo.

2. Applauding the commemorative events held to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries in 2012, the two Prime Ministers reaffirmed that India and Japan, as the two largest democracies in Asia sharing such universal values as freedom, democracy and rule of law, enjoy very close and wide-ranging relations. They expressed their resolve to further consolidate and strengthen the Strategic and Global Partnership between India and Japan in the years ahead, taking into account changes in the strategic environment.

3. Prime Minister Abe expressed his appreciation for the invitation to Their Majesties the Emperor and the Empress of Japan to visit India. The two Prime Ministers confirmed that the two governments would make necessary preparations and coordination with a view to realizing Their Majesties’ visit as State Guests from the end of November to early December.

4. The two Prime Ministers expressed satisfaction at the steady growth of political exchanges, dialogue and policy coordination at all levels. They positively evaluated Ministerial-level annual dialogues and exchanges, particularly the Foreign Ministers’ Strategic Dialogue and the Ministerial Level Economic Dialogue. The two Prime Ministers also noted the successful outcomes achieved during the"2 plus 2” dialogue, the Foreign Secretary level Dialogue, the Foreign Office Consultations, the Defence Policy Dialogue, the Trilateral Dialogue between India, Japan and the United States, as well as other key interactions on various areas including cyber, counter-terrorism and economic partnership. The two Prime Ministers welcomed the launch of the bilateral Maritime Affairs Dialogue, the first meeting of which was held on 29 January 2013 in Delhi.


5. The two Prime Ministers welcomed the expanding defence relations between the two countries based on the Joint Declaration on Security Cooperation between India and Japan. The two Prime Ministers expressed satisfaction that the first bilateral exercise between the Indian Navy (IN)and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF)was held in June 2012 off the coast of Japan and decided to conduct such exercises on a regular basis with increased frequency. They decided to establish a Joint Working Group (JWG) to explore modality for the cooperation on the US-2 amphibian aircraft.

6. Prime Minister Singh expressed his appreciation to the Government and people of Japan for their continued and unwavering support to India’s development. Prime Minister Abe reaffirmed that Japan would continue its Official Development Assistance at a substantial level to encourage India’s efforts towards social and economic development, including in the area of infrastructure and human resource development. The two Prime Ministers welcomed the signing of the Exchange of Notes for yen loan totalling 71billion yen for the "Mumbai Metro Line-III project”, as well as the yen loan of the fiscal year 2012 totalling353.106 billion yen for eight projects. Prime Minister Singh appreciated the pledge by Prime Minister Abe for the Campus Development Project of Indian Institute of Technology, Hyderabad (Phase 2) for 17.7 billion yen and the "Tamil Nadu Investment Promotion Programme” for 13 billion yen.

7. Noting that the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) has given a fillip to economic and trade relations, the two Prime Ministers stressed the importance of continued efforts to further enhance trade in goods and services as well as investments. In this context, they expressed satisfaction with the successful holding of the second meeting of the Joint Committee as well as a series of Sub-Committees.

8. The two Prime Ministers welcomed the signing of the Agreement between India and Japan on Social Security in November 2012 and directed their relevant authorities in the governments to work towards its early entry into force. They expressed hope that this agreement would contribute to further accelerating bilateral activities of private sectors.

9. Prime Minister Singh expressed concern on the issue of import of Indian shrimp by Japan and hoped that this issue would be resolved soon.

10. The two Prime Ministers expressed satisfaction with the progress in cooperation of creative industries and welcomed the successful launch of the Indian Design Mark developed by the India Design Council and the Japan Institute of Design Promotion.

11. The two Prime Ministers noted with satisfaction the progress in implementation of the Western Dedicated Freight Corridor (DFC). They expressed satisfaction that in Phase-I the procurement of civil works was at an advanced stage and that the Engineering Service Consultants for Phase-II were already in position. The two Prime Ministers also expressed satisfaction with the signing of the first tranche of the Main Loan Agreement for Phase-II totalling approximately 136 billion yen.

12. The two Prime Ministers welcomed the progress made in the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC) as a visionary India-Japan Strategic Partnership project which would enable India to access innovative, cutting edge technologies. The two leaders shared the view that all instruments of funding of the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) including the Special Term for Economic Partnership (STEP) may be explored. They appreciated the formation of the DMIC Project Implementation Trust in India as well as the listing of possible projects for Japan’s public and private financing as Japan’s USD 4.5 billion facility decided during the DMIC Task Force meeting at Tokyo in October 2012. The two Prime Ministers also welcomed 26% equity participation of the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) in the DMIC Development Corporation (DMICDC), and the dispatch of an expert from JICA and board members from JBIC to DMICDC. The two Prime Ministers reviewed the rapid progress made in absorbing next generation technologies through the Smart Community Projects and directed the relevant authorities to vigorously accelerate implementation of the Seawater Desalination Project at Dahej, Gujarat, the Model Solar Project in Neemrana, Rajasthan, and the gas-fired independent power producer (IPP) project in Maharashtra. The two Prime Ministers also stressed on the early realization of other Smart Community Projects and directed that all necessary measures be taken to provide solutions for provision of gas at reasonable rates and for electricity and environmental regulations so that each project moves ahead speedily as a symbol of India-Japan strategic partnership. Prime Minister Abe welcomed the relaxations of capital and financial regulations by India which could bring sustainable and stable economic growth in India by enhancing private sector investments and domestic production. The two Prime Ministers decided to continue consultations and work towards expeditious solutions to the remaining issues.

13. Recognizing the importance of development in the Chennai-Bengaluru areas, the two Prime Ministers underlined their commitment to reinforce their cooperation. Prime Minister Singh directed relevant authorities to accelerate the improvement of infrastructure such as ports, roads, bridges and industrial parks, as well as electricity and water supply, in Ennore, Chennai and adjoining areas and to monitor the progress utilizing the Tamil Nadu Investment Promotion Programme (TNIPP). They welcomed the outcome of the preliminary study conducted by JICA for a Comprehensive Integrated Master Plan of the region and the signing of the Terms of Reference (TORs) for the Master Plan for the Chennai-Bengaluru Industrial Corridor (CBIC). The two Prime Ministers instructed their relevant authorities to accelerate their efforts to develop the Master Plan by the end of fiscal year 2014.

14. Noting the importance of increasing Japanese investment and business in India for economic growth of both countries, the two Prime Ministers expressed their expectation to advance cooperation between the Ministry of Commerce and Industry of India and the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) of Japan in the framework of India’s "National Manufacturing Policy” in such areas as industrial human resource development and business environment improvement. The two Prime Ministers highly appreciated the achievements of the Visionary Leaders for Manufacturing (VLFM) programme as a valuable Japanese contribution to the development of the manufacturing sector in India and welcomed the development of this programme as the new project ‘Champions of Societal Manufacturing’(CSM).

15. Prime Minister Singh noted Japan’s interest in supporting the introduction of high speed railway system in India. Prime Minister Singh appreciated Japan’s high level of expertise in designing and implementing High Speed Railway (Shinkansen) systems. Prime Minister Singh conveyed that India will plan such projects based on its infrastructure priorities, commercial viability and financial resources in India. The two Prime Ministers decided that the two sides will co-finance a joint feasibility study of High Speed Railway system on the Mumbai-Ahmedabad route.

16. The two Prime Ministers, recognising the importance of upgrading the speed of passenger trains on the existing Delhi-Mumbai route to 160-200 kmph (Semi-High Speed Railway system), welcomed the final report of the feasibility study undertaken with Japan’s cooperation, and confirmed that further consultation between the two countries would be continued to draw up a road-map.

17. The two Prime Ministers shared the view that business environment improvement is significant in enhancing bilateral investment and trade which would drive growth of both countries. In this connection, the two Prime Ministers expressed their expectation that both countries would continue to work closely to achieve an enabling predictability and transparency in terms of business environment including tax administration which is conducive to India-Japan economic cooperation and greater flow of investment, technology and services between the two countries. The two Prime Ministers welcomed JETRO’s matching activities later this year to strengthen business partnership and consolidate supply chains between the two countries.

18. The two Prime Ministers expressed satisfaction with the successful outcomes of the 5th and 6thIndia-JapanEnergy Dialogue and shared the importance of strengthening energy cooperation including in areas of renewable energy and energy conservation, Clean Coal Technologies (CCT), institutional issues as well as transmission and distribution system in power sector. Confirming to expand LNG cooperation through LNG Producer-Consumer Conference, the two Prime Ministers welcomed the progress of a joint study on pricing of LNG the result of which will be reported at the Conference. Prime Minister Singh expressed interest in cooperating with Japan in extraction of natural gas from methane hydrate deposits under the sea. They reaffirmed the importance of India-Japan Energy Forum to be held in India in September 2013 by JETRO, NEDO and TERI, including an exhibition to showcase Japanese technology in energy sector.

19. The two Prime Ministers appreciated the steady progress made in enhancing trade in high technology for mutual benefit and directed their relevant organizations to bring the dialogue in this field to a successful outcome.

20. The two Prime Ministers reaffirmed the importance of civil nuclear cooperation between the two countries, while recognizing that nuclear safety is a priority for both Governments. In this context, they directed their officials to accelerate the negotiations of an Agreement for Cooperation in the Peaceful Uses of Nuclear Energy towards an early conclusion.

21. The two Prime Ministers welcomed the signing of the Memorandum between the Department of Atomic Energy of India and the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) of Japan on cooperation in rare earths industry in India. The two Prime Ministers shared the view that the commencement of commercial production of rare earths by Indian and Japanese enterprises should take place at the earliest.

22. The two Prime Ministers noted the importance of cooperation in the field of science and technology for development of national economies and improvement of socio-economic standards of life. They welcomed the progress made under Agreement between the Government of Japan and the Government of India on Co-operation in the Field of Science and Technology and noted with satisfaction the implementation of various science and technology activities. The two Prime Ministers also welcomed the steps being taken by both sides to further enhance science and technology cooperation between the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Ministry of Science and Technology of India and the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) of Japan. The two Prime Ministers welcomed the progress made so far in information and communications technology (ICT) and electronics sectors, including Ministerial level interaction resulting in creation of Japan Help Desk for facilitating cooperation in Electronic system Design and Manufacturing. They shared the common view to further enhance business tie-ups in private sectors and cooperation in cyber security as well as promotion of joint research and development (R&D) and bilateral cooperation in international standardization in the information and communications technology. Prime Minister Singh expressed hope to further enhance opportunities for Japanese industries in Electronic System Design and Manufacturing and Telecommunications in India and business opportunities for Indian ICT companies in Japan.

23. The two Prime Ministers reaffirmed their resolve to further promote people-to-people exchanges between the two countries, particularly youth exchange. In this connection, Prime Minister Abe expressed Japan's intention to invite approximately 1,200 youth from India to visit Japan through JENESYS 2.0 in order to promote interest towards Japan among the youth of India and to promote tourism between the two countries. Noting that there is a very high potential for growth of tourism traffic between the two countries, the two Prime Ministers underlined the importance of enhancing cooperation in the tourism sector and welcomed the recent progress concerning the bilateral cooperation in the field of tourism between the Ministry of Tourism of India and the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism of Japan. The two Prime Ministers also welcomed recent measures taken by the two countries respectively relating to residence permits which would further enhance business and professional exchanges. Prime Minister Abe appreciated India’s ‘visa on arrival’ scheme for Japanese tourists which would facilitate tourism from Japan to India.

24. The two Prime Ministers reconfirmed the importance of educational cooperation between the two countries. The two Prime Ministers expressed satisfaction at progress of cooperation for the Indian Institute of Technology, Hyderabad (IIT-H) and the Indian Institute of Information Technology, Design and Manufacturing in Jabalpur (IIITDM-J) with Japanese support. Prime Minister Singh appreciated Japan’s intention to contribute to Nalanda University including through the yen loan for the improvement of road access to the University, as well as its support for Peace Studies in the University.

25. The two Prime Ministers noted on-going discussions on cooperation in urban development in the framework of the bilateral Joint Working Group, which is one of the important areas of bilateral cooperation in view of increasing urbanization in India.

26. The two Prime Ministers reiterated the commitment of India and Japan to the freedom of navigation and unimpeded commerce based on the principles of international law, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). They noted ongoing bilateral exchanges on maritime security including counter-piracy activities, participation in bilateral and multilateral exercises as well as sharing of information, and in this context, welcomed the joint exercises between the Coast Guards of India and Japan held off Chennai in January 2012 and in Tokyo Bay in November 2012. They expressed their expectations to further promote bilateral and multilateral cooperation on maritime issues.

27. The two Prime Ministers reaffirmed their support for the East Asia Summit (EAS) as a forum for dialogue on broad strategic, political and economic issues of common interest and concern with the aim of promoting peace, stability and economic prosperity in East Asia. They acknowledged the significant role the EAS can play as a forum for building an open, inclusive and transparent architecture of regional cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region. The two Prime Ministers noted the importance of the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF), the ASEAN Defence Ministers Meeting Plus (ADMM-Plus) along with the EAS in this regard. They welcomed the successful first meeting of the Expanded ASEAN Maritime Forum. The two Prime Ministers shared the importance of economic integration in the region and welcomed the holding of the first EAS Economic Ministers’ Meeting as well as the launch of negotiations on Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), followed by the successful first round of negotiations held in May 2013 in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam. They also confirmed the 6th EAS Declaration on ASEAN Connectivity that includes consideration be given to the "Connectivity Master Plan Plus” in the future anticipating the Economic Research Institute of ASEAN and East Asia (ERIA) to provide useful inputs towards this.

28. The two Prime Ministers renewed their intention to assist Afghanistan’s efforts to become a stable, democratic and pluralistic state, adhering to rule of law. They welcomed the outcomes of the successful Tokyo Conference on Afghanistan in July 2012fordevelopment and security assistance from Transition to Transformation Decade. Recognising that the main threat to Afghanistan’s security and stability is terrorism, they emphasized the need for joint and concerted efforts and cooperation among regional and other countries to address the challenge of terrorism. The two Prime Ministers supported the efforts made by the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan for reconciliation process that is Afghan-led, inclusive and transparent.

29. The two Prime Ministers expressed concern over North Korea’s continued development of its nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programmes, including its uranium enrichment activities. They urged North Korea to fully comply with its obligations under all relevant United Nations Security Council Resolutions and its commitments under the 2005 Six Party Talks Joint Statement. They reiterated the importance of full implementation of the Resolutions by the international community. They urged that the abductions issue be resolved at the earliest as a humanitarian concern.

30. The two Prime Ministers condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, committed by whomever, wherever and for whatever purpose. They reiterated that no cause or grievance justifies terrorism, and the need to adopt a holistic approach that ensures zero tolerance towards terrorism. The two Prime Ministers expressed satisfaction at the meetings of the India-Japan Joint Working Group on Counter-terrorism and their cooperation in multilateral fora. They recognize the need to finalize and adopt the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism in the United Nations.

31. The two Prime Ministers reaffirmed their shared commitment to the total elimination of nuclear weapons. Prime Minister Abe stressed the importance of bringing into force the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) at an early date. Prime Minister Singh reiterated India’s commitment to its unilateral and voluntary moratorium on nuclear explosive testing. The two Prime Ministers also reaffirmed their commitment to working together for immediate commencement and an early conclusion of negotiations on a non-discriminatory, multilateral and internationally and effectively verifiable Fissile Material Cut-off Treaty (FMCT). They also supported the strengthening of international cooperation to address the challenges of nuclear proliferation and nuclear terrorism. The two Prime Ministers recognised the importance of an effective national export control system conforming to the highest international standards. Prime Minister Abe recognized India’s sound non-proliferation record. Both sides expressed their commitment to continue to work to prepare the ground for India to become a full member in the international export control regimes: the Nuclear Suppliers Group, the Missile Technology Control Regime, the Australia Group and the Wassenaar Arrangement.

32. The two Prime Ministers welcomed the outcome of the 18th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in Doha in December 2012 and emphasized the need for all Parties in UNFCCC to work together in an open, transparent and inclusive manner for enhanced action under the Durban Platform. The two Prime Ministers stressed the need to strengthen bilateral and regional cooperation to promote sustainable development and environmentally friendly technologies including in actions for GHG emissions reductions, promotion of low-carbon technology, products and services, and welcomed the outcome of the UN Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio+20) in June 2012 as reflected in " The Future We Want ”, in particular, political commitment including the reaffirmation of the Rio principle made towards sustainable development and poverty eradication. Prime Minister Abe congratulated India on the successful outcome of the 11thmeeting of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD COP11) held in Hyderabad in October 2012, which was an important step toward achievement of Aichi Biodiversity Targets. The two leaders expressed their hope that the post-2015 development agenda will be focused on development, economic growth and poverty eradication and that the relevant intergovernmental process under the United Nations on this issue will finalize a balanced, equitable and pragmatic outcome.

33. The two Prime Ministers reemphasized their resolve to work towards early reform of the United Nations, including the expansion of the United Nations Security Council in both permanent and non-permanent categories, particularly through the efforts of the G-4 so as to reflect contemporary geopolitical realities. They confirmed that such reforms were necessary to make the Security Council more representative, effective, credible and responsive to the needs of its wider membership. They concurred in continuing to take an active part in the inter-governmental negotiations in the United Nations General Assembly supporting the Chair to achieve meaningful progress. In this regard, they also decided to strengthen their bilateral cooperation and consultation with other Member States. They decided to hold the 1^st India-Japan Consultation on UN Issues, including United Nations Security Council reform, soon and confirmed to hold regular consultations twice a year, to further enhance cooperation between the two countries.

34. Prime Minister Singh expressed his appreciation for the warm welcome and hospitality of Prime Minister Abe and the Government of Japan. Prime Minister Singh extended an invitation to Prime Minister Abe for the next Annual Bilateral Summit in India at a mutually convenient date to be decided through diplomatic channels. Prime Minister Abe accepted the invitation with pleasure.

Tokyo
May 29, 2013

Dr. Manmohan Singh                                               Mr. Shinzo Abe
Prime Minister of the Republic of India                 Prime Minister of Japan