External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar on Tuesday emphasized that the India-Japan Special Strategic Global Partnership is crucial for promoting regional peace, international stability, and global prosperity. Speaking at the 7th India-Japan Indo-Pacific Forum and the 10th India-Japan Track 1.5 Dialogue, Jaishankar highlighted Japan’s pivotal role in India’s economic development and stressed the importance of strengthening bilateral ties in areas such as clean energy, semiconductors, and economic cooperation.
Jaishankar noted that Japan continues to be a key contributor to India’s economic growth, with an investment target of 5 trillion yen by 2027. However, he pointed out that trade figures still fall below expectations and called for more robust economic cooperation between the two nations in the face of global uncertainties.
The minister also underscored the alignment of India’s Act East Policy with Japan’s vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific, stating that both nations must set ambitious targets and work towards realizing them. He highlighted the shared support for the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP) and collaboration under the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI), where Japan is co-leading efforts on maritime trade, transport, and connectivity.
“Our partnership is built on trust and has been growing stronger over the past decade,” Jaishankar said in his virtual address. “As we expand common interests and forge new collaborations, particularly in areas like clean energy and semiconductor supply chains, we aim to promote a resilient global economy, reliable supply chains, and sustainable growth.”
On defense cooperation, Jaishankar noted the increasing frequency of defense exchanges and joint exercises between the two countries, signaling progress toward deeper military collaboration. He also stressed the need to move forward in defense equipment and technology cooperation.
The minister pointed out the need for further strengthening people-to-people connections between India and Japan, particularly in education, tourism, and the movement of skilled workers. He expressed optimism about recent initiatives from Japan, which he said hold great promise for deepening bilateral ties.
Jaishankar’s remarks reflect the growing significance of the India-Japan partnership, which traces its roots back to the 6th century when Buddhism was introduced to Japan from India. Over the years, the two countries have worked closely to expand their cooperation, culminating in the establishment of a “Global Partnership” during Prime Minister Yoshiro Mori’s visit to India in 2000.
(With inputs from ANI)
