Prime Minister's Official Residence, Tokyo, Japan

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, and Mrs Singh, I am so happy that you are finally with us in Tokyo.

---You know what? You are the senior most, sometimes a mentor-like, leader I can still call "my dear friend."

We launched the Japan-India Strategic and Global Partnership, together, in 2006. You greeted me so warmly when I was in Delhi as Prime Minister last time, in the summer of 2007. Your friendship touched me most deeply.

When I was in Delhi the next time, in 2011, you were just about to leave for New York for the United Nations General Assembly. Yet you chose to sit down with me longer than planned, for which I was most thankful.

I think I have learnt from you more than I am aware myself. You think, do you not, that history, not the daily headlines, is the only judge for the steps you have taken. I think I must do as you have done, in your hall mark calmness.

I am focused, single-mindedly, to rebuilding Japan. Only a strong Japan can do good for the betterment of the world. Only a vibrant Japan can work more, jointly with India. As I have said repeatedly, a strong Japan is in the best interest of India, and vice versa.

You remember that I spoke of the Confluence of the Two Seas in 2007 at the Indian Parliament. I am of a belief that it is the task for the maritime democracies to safeguard our vast oceans.

India from the west, Japan from the east, the confluence of the two most deep-rooted democracies is already one important part of international common goods for the 21st Century. I am of a belief that it is the important task that Japan and India should shoulder to ensure that Asia remain in peace and prosperity.

I am looking forward to meeting you again soon, the next time in Delhi, and telling you some of the positive steps I will have taken to strengthen our partnership, economically and strategically.

By the end of the year, Their Majesties the Emperor and Empress of Japan are going to visit India. Let us take this moment to give a toast for Their Majesties' good health and good journey to your country, and for our even more prosperous future relationship.