In a significant move to bolster their bilateral ties, Japan and India have pledged to enhance cooperation in security, economic resilience, and advanced technologies. This agreement followed a pivotal summit held in New Delhi between Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Both leaders reiterated their commitment to maintaining a free and rules-based Indo-Pacific region and voiced concerns over economic coercion as well as the situation in the East and South China Seas.
The two nations are set to strengthen their supply chains, focusing on pivotal sectors such as semiconductors and critical minerals. Additionally, the partnership aims to expand joint military exercises, improve collaboration on naval vessel maintenance, and advance defense equipment development. A significant feature of this enhanced cooperation will be a “two-plus-two” meeting involving foreign and defense ministers from both countries later this year.
Economic collaboration between the two countries is also seeing a substantial boost. Japanese and Indian companies have signed 129 memorandums of understanding, involving investments totaling approximately ¥2 trillion ($12.4 billion). These agreements span across various sectors including semiconductors, artificial intelligence, automotive manufacturing, and other advanced technologies, underscoring the depth and breadth of the economic partnership.
Further reflecting the growing collaboration in emerging technologies, Japan and India have agreed to intensify their cooperation in artificial intelligence. A key aspect of this initiative is the plan to bring 500 Indian AI specialists to Japan by 2030. This move is aimed at fostering joint research and innovation, highlighting the shared commitment of both countries to advancing their technological capabilities.