New Delhi, Sep 12 (IANS): India and Japan Thursday agreed to expand co-operation in the films sector, particularly in co-production of animation films.

Both countries also agreed to form a Joint Working Group to tap the "huge business potential" in the co-production of films and animation, skill development, exchange programmes between training institutes and other areas that are mutually beneficial to both sides, said a joint statement.

The agreement was signed by Information and Broadcasting Minister Manish Tewari and visiting Japanese Economy, Trade and Industry Minister Toshimitsu Motegi here.

During the discussions, Tewari extended an invitation for Japanese partnership in setting up of the proposed National Centre for Excellence in Animation, Gaming and Special Effects (NCOE) in Mohali, Punjab.

He also welcomed Japanese expertise in developing special training courses at the Film and Television Institute of India, Pune and the Satyajit Ray Film and TV Institute (SRFTII), Kolkata, said a statement.

Welcoming Japan's decision to be the focus country at the International Film Festival of India in Goa this year, Tewari extended a personal invitation to the Japanese minister to attend IFFI, 2013.

Motegi affirmed full Japanese cooperation in the media content industry of India. He said that a beginning has been made by way of co-production of films, particularly animation films.

He said there is a significant potential for growth in the media sector in India as the country is making rapid economic progress, the statement added.

Information and Broadcasting Secretary Bimal Julka said immediate steps would be taken to establish the Joint Working Group.

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