Participation of Mrs. KISHIDA Yuko, Spouse of the Prime Minister, in the Official Spouses' Program of G20 New Delhi Summit - First Day (Summary)

On September 9th, Mrs. KISHIDA Yuko, the Spouse of Prime Minister KISHIDA Fumio, who is currently visiting India accompanying the Prime Minister, attended the official spouses’ program of G20 New Delhi Summit hosted by Mrs. Kyoko Jaishankar, the spouse of H.E. Dr. S. Jaishankar, Minister of External Affairs of India.
Mrs. Kishida attended the official dinner hosted by Smt. Droupadi Murmu, Hon’ble President of India, together with Prime Minister Kishida. Mrs. Kishida was dressed in a saree, an Indian ethnic dress.

1. (1) The spouse and partner visited the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI). IARI is a historic institute that contributed to increased yield of agricultural products in India. Mrs. KISHIDA, together with other spouses and partners, was briefed on the efforts for human resources development and breed improvement, and also participated in a talks with farmers. They also completed a pattern called “Rangoli”, which is painted on the entrances of buildings mainly during festivals and celebrations, using millet. India is now promoting millet and other minor grains to the world for their nutritional and health benefits, as we as their adaptability to grow easily even in a changing climate.
2. (2)  The group then visited National Gallery of Modern Art. The building, Jaipur House, used to be the residence of Maharaja of Jaipur. The gallery is one of the largest modern art gallery which houses a collection of more than 1,700 works of art. In this historic building, a welcome luncheon was hosted by Mrs. Jaishankar, and the spouses and partners enjoyed lunch in a friendly atmosphere. After lunch, they took part in the opening ceremony of a new exhibition highlighting Indian stories from ancient times from various viewpoints including anthropology and literature, and viewed this exhibit.

The spouses and the partners experienced India in depth through agriculture, arts, fine arts, and culture, and deepened their friendship with each other.