Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi commenced a three-day visit to India, meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi to deepen economic ties and strengthen security cooperation. This move is largely driven by both nations' desire to reduce dependence on China. The discussions prioritized economic security, encompassing crucial sectors like semiconductors, critical minerals, and energy. These areas are increasingly vital due to the escalating competition in artificial intelligence, the geopolitical significance of rare earths, and vulnerabilities in supply chains exposed by global conflicts.
The agenda for the discussions covered approximately ten sectors. Key among these were oil, mobility, critical minerals, and pharmaceuticals, as confirmed by senior officials in New Delhi. The leaders aimed to boost economic ties to a new level, with Tokyo signaling increased investment in India. The visit underscores the growing importance of India as a key Indo-Pacific partner for Japan, especially amidst mounting concerns over supply chain disruptions, energy security, and China's expanding influence in the region.
The leaders advanced cooperation in artificial intelligence, economic security, clean energy, and defense, building upon a 10-year roadmap established during Modi's visit to Tokyo the previous year. Takaichi emphasized that Japan and India can achieve greater strength and prosperity by leveraging each other's strengths. She highlighted the increasing importance of such a mutually complementary partnership given the turbulent international environment. The discussions also focused on enhancing supply chain resilience and technological capabilities through Japanese investment in 17 strategic areas.
