In a significant diplomatic engagement, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi have committed to enhancing collaboration in the realms of security, economic resilience, and advanced technologies. The leaders converged in New Delhi, where they underscored the importance of a free and rules-based Indo-Pacific region. They voiced their concerns over issues of economic coercion and developments in areas like the East China Sea and South China Sea.
Strengthening supply chains emerged as a focal point of their discussions, with particular attention on strategic sectors such as semiconductors and critical minerals. This move is aimed at bolstering economic resilience against potential disruptions. Additionally, the partnership will see an expansion in joint military exercises and enhanced cooperation in naval vessel maintenance and defense equipment development. Both countries have also planned a “two-plus-two” meeting involving foreign and defense ministers later in the year to further cement their defense ties.
On the economic front, the summit yielded substantial results with Japanese and Indian companies signing 129 memorandums of understanding. These agreements represent investments totaling approximately ¥2 trillion ($12.4 billion) across various sectors, including semiconductors, artificial intelligence, automotive manufacturing, and advanced technologies. This development marks a robust stride in economic collaboration between the two nations.
Moreover, Japan and India have set ambitious goals in the field of artificial intelligence. They have agreed to enhance cooperation in this rapidly evolving domain by aiming to bring 500 Indian AI specialists to Japan by 2030. This initiative is designed to support joint research and innovation, reflecting the growing importance of emerging technologies in their bilateral relationship.