Oversea Connecting Strategy of Yamanashi Prefecture Led by Governor Nagasaki and Indian Adviser

Yamanashi Prefecture is intensifying its efforts to establish international relations, particularly through a partnership with India’s Uttar Pradesh state, which began with a foundational agreement in 2024, reports 24brussels.

Emphasizing green hydrogen technology, Yamanashi began supplying this resource to the Japanese market in 2021, attracting interest from the USA, Vietnam, Brazil, and Austria. The prefecture plans to host the “Fuji Hydrogen International Summit” in 2026, aimed at promoting a carbon-neutral society through enhanced green hydrogen utilization. This summit is set to facilitate international discussions on hydrogen’s role in societal applications.

Governor Nagasaki expressed his intention to strengthen ties with India two years ago, despite a lack of prior connections. Indian adviser Neerendra Upadhyaya, CEO of NPI, advocated for collaboration with Uttar Pradesh, citing its robust leadership, substantial population, and rich cultural resources. According to Upadhyaya, the proactive approaches of Prime Minister Yogi Adityanath and Governor Nagasaki led to significant progress on various projects, including those focusing on green hydrogen.

As part of the collaboration in green hydrogen, the Indian Institute of Technology and Yamanashi University have initiated a partnership. Additionally, discussions are underway to invite a workforce from Uttar Pradesh to join Yamanashi companies, highlighting potential employment avenues. Upadhyaya underscored Uttar Pradesh’s rich cultural tourism resources, noting that over 400 million pilgrims visited during the January 2025 Kumbh Mela, which could also serve as a draw for Japanese tourists.

Moreover, Upadhyaya is encouraging Bollywood film productions in Yamanashi, enhancing cultural exchanges between India and Japan. He also plays a significant role as an adviser for Ehime Prefecture and serves as a consultant for Hiroshima Prefecture, further facilitating connections between the two nations.

Governor Nagasaki commended Upadhyaya’s contributions, stating, “Mr. Neerendra is integral for mutual exchange between India and Yamanashi. Utilizing his knowledge and strong human network, he devotes himself to establishing mutual exchange, particularly with Uttar Pradesh, fostering a reliable relationship with PM Yogi. I sincerely express my gratitude for his contributions and anticipate further support.”