Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the State Funeral of former Prime Minister of Japan Shinzo Abe at the Nippon Budokan, Tokyo. Representatives from over 100 countries, including more than 20 Heads of State / Government participated in the State Funeral.
PM Modi honoured the memory of former PM Abe, who he considered a dear friend and a great champion of India-Japan partnership.
When I was in Tokyo earlier this year, little did I imagine I would be back for the solemn programme of former PM Abe’s state funeral. He was a great leader, a phenomenal individual and someone who believed in India-Japan friendship. He shall live on in the hearts of millions! pic.twitter.com/VwN5iufP6g
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 27, 2022
Following the State Funeral, Prime Minister had a private meeting with Akie Abe, spouse of Late PM Abe, at the Akasaka Palace. Prime Minister Modi conveyed his heartfelt condolences to Abe. He recalled his fond friendship and the significant contribution made by former PM Abe in taking India-Japan relationship to new heights. Prime Minister also had a brief interaction thereafter with Prime Minister Kishida to reiterate his condolences.
Had a fruitful meeting with PM Kishida. We discussed various bilateral subjects. I conveyed my condolences on the tragic demise of former PM Shinzo Abe. @kishida230 pic.twitter.com/B46HQ4tbca
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 27, 2022
On 8 July 2022, Abe was assassinated while delivering a campaign speech in Nara two days before the 10 July upper house elections. The suspect, who was arrested at the scene, confessed to targeting the former prime minister because of Abe’s ties with the Unification Church. Abe’s assassination was the first assassination of a former Japanese prime minister since 1936.
