Tokyo, May 22: Aki Abe, the wife of former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, visited the Indian Embassy in Tokyo earlier this week. During her visit, she reflected on her late husband’s deep affection for India and his strong friendship with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
In a conversation with India’s Ambassador to Japan, Nagama M. Malik, Aki Abe also discussed her charity work and initiatives involving youth.
The Indian Embassy in Tokyo expressed its honor in hosting Aki Abe on social media, stating, “It was a great privilege to welcome Aki Abe to the embassy earlier this week. Former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, one of Japan’s greatest politicians, was a true friend of India.”
The post further noted, “Ambassador Nagama M. Malik shared how we cherish his memory in India. Aki Abe reminisced about the deep bond between former PM Abe and Prime Minister Modi. She also spoke about her charity work and engagement with youth.”
Last September, during an event in Tokyo, Aki Abe emphasized that her husband’s relationship with India extended far beyond his role as Prime Minister.
She remarked, “My husband’s connection with India was much more than just his role as Prime Minister. Especially with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, they could feel a sense of kinship with just a smile. My husband valued many things and took care of them. I hope to carry his legacy forward in my own helpful way.”
Shinzo Abe significantly contributed to elevating India-Japan relations to a special strategic and global partnership level. His connection with PM Modi dates back many years, as he had known the Indian leader since his tenure as Chief Minister of Gujarat.
Following Shinzo Abe’s passing in 2022, PM Modi expressed his sorrow over the “tragic loss of one of his dearest friends” and attended the former Prime Minister’s state funeral. He described Abe as a great global statesman, an exceptional leader, and a remarkable ruler who dedicated his life to making Japan and the world a better place.
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