To promote cultural and commercial ties, encourage tourism, develop educational tie-ups, exchange technology and cooperate in a host of other spheres, Agra Municipal Corporation (AMC) signed a sister city agreement with Chengdu city of China on Thursday. A delegation from the neighbouring country visited Agra Municipal Corporation office on Thursday afternoon for the purpose.

Japan already has the tools in place and the commitment – through its broader strategic approach to Africa evidenced by TICAD – to leverage its provision of aid in Africa. The challenge in the coming years will be to shape the narrative about its aid for the local population. Japan needs to look at ways to better connect its programs to its national brand and needs to utilize its diplomatic tools to engage more deeply with people in recipient countries.