Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that he and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe were very optimistic about scripting a new chapter in the strong bond between the two countries .In a series of tweet last night , Modi thanked Mr. Abe for the wonderful welcome being given to the Indian delegation in Kyoto.Modi has arrived in Kyoto yesterday in his first leg of five day visit to Japan.Modi further said that it was delighting to witness the signing of Memorandum of Understanding between Varanasi and Kyoto.

He termed the agreement yet another instance of furthering cooperation between the two countries. India said that the agreement would help to promote heritage conservation, city modernization and to contribute in the field of art, culture and education between Varanasi and Kyoto. It may be recalled that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has begun Japan visit in a positive note.

On the first day of his visit yesterday , Modi was greeted by his Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe at the State Guest House in Kyoto. Abe was travelled from Tokyo to the heritage city of Kyoto to greet Narendra Modi. The Indian Prime Minister also fed Koi fish at the State Guest House. Japanese believe that feeding Koi fish bring peace and prosperity.

Modi gifted two books to Mr. Abe, namely Swami Vivekananda and Japan and Bhagwad Gita. Shinzo Abe hosted a dinner for Modi at the Imperial Guest House.Both the leaders discussed economic issues and opportunities that both countries had to seize from the strong political mandates to infuse new momentum. Modi and Abe felt that the Memorandum of Agreement signed between Varanasi and Kyoto was yet another reflection of working together to foster cooperation to address contemporary challenges.

Meanwhile, people from India and other countries have greeted Modi in Kyoto. Some NRIs who are in Kyoto overjoyed to have a glimpse of their favorite leader. On the other hand, Modi will visit Toji and Kinkakurji temple and Center for iPS Cell Research at Kyoto University today .Japan Prime Minister will also accompany him to Toji temple. Modi will also attend a presentation on Kyoto city and meet Governor of Kyoto Prefecture and Chief Executive Officer of Nidec Corporation.

AIR correspondent reports that media in Japan has prominently highlighted the visit of Narendra Modi. Photographs of Modi feeding fish or his meeting with Japan Prime Minister appeared in most of the newspapers. Issues of defense, infrastructure and business cooperation, among others are being discussed in media.