India and Japan on Thursday agreed to deepen cooperation in artificial intelligence, critical metals, energy and defence, while adopting a joint roadmap on economic security as the two countries sought to strengthen their strategic and economic partnership. The agreements were signed following talks in New Delhi between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, who is on a three-day visit to India accompanied by a large business delegation.
Strategic Partnership Enhanced
"Japan and India will leverage each other's strengths to grow strong and prosperous together," Takaichi told reporters after the meeting. "Amid a turbulent international landscape, building such a mutually complementary cooperative relationship has become increasingly important." Her visit follows Modi's trip to Tokyo last year, during which Japan pledged to more than double its investment in India to more than $61 billion over the next decade, underscoring the growing economic relationship between the two countries.
Key Areas of Cooperation
The joint roadmap on economic security outlines collaboration in critical technologies, supply chain resilience, and strategic sectors. The two leaders also discussed enhancing maritime security and regional stability in the Indo-Pacific region. The agreements are expected to boost bilateral trade and investment, with Japan already being a major investor in India's infrastructure, automotive, and electronics sectors.
Modi emphasized the importance of the partnership, stating that India and Japan share a common vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific. The two countries also agreed to work together on emerging technologies, including quantum computing and 5G, as well as on renewable energy and clean technology.
Business Delegation and Future Prospects
The large business delegation accompanying Takaichi includes representatives from major Japanese corporations in sectors such as manufacturing, technology, and finance. The visit is expected to result in several private-sector agreements and investments, further strengthening economic ties. The leaders also discussed people-to-people exchanges and educational cooperation, aiming to deepen cultural understanding between the two nations.
