Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Japanese counterpart Shigeru Ishiba on Friday unveiled a comprehensive 10-year roadmap aimed at deepening strategic, economic, and technological cooperation between India and Japan.
The announcement came after wide-ranging talks in Tokyo, culminating in the 15th India-Japan Annual Summit. Both leaders committed to advancing security ties, expanding trade and investment, and driving innovation in emerging sectors.
A central element of the joint statement was Japan’s pledge to mobilize investments worth 10 trillion yen (approximately $65 billion) into India over the next decade. PM Modi said that special emphasis would be placed on linking the two nations’ small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and startups, with collaboration in artificial intelligence, semiconductors, environment, and healthcare set to feature prominently.
“Our discussions today were both productive and purposeful. As the two largest economies and vibrant democracies, our partnership is not just crucial for our nations but also for global peace and security,” PM Modi said at a joint press conference. “We have laid the foundation for a golden chapter in our special strategic and global partnership.”
The two leaders also exchanged a Long-Term Vision Document on bilateral relations, reaffirming shared goals in investment, technology, environment, health, mobility, and people-to-people exchanges. PM Modi reiterated his call to Japanese businesses, urging them to “Make in India, Make for the World.”
Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba underscored the historic and cultural ties binding the two countries, recalling the introduction of Buddhism to Japan in the 6th century. “Our relationship has always been enriched by spiritual and cultural exchanges, and today we are building on that legacy with renewed energy,” Ishiba said while welcoming PM Modi and his delegation.
This visit marks Modi’s first trip to Japan since May 2023. His arrival earlier in the day was met with a ceremonial Guard of Honour. The summit also celebrated a decade since India and Japan elevated their ties to a “Special Strategic and Global Partnership.”
Following his engagements in Japan, PM Modi will travel to China to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Tianjin.
-ANI
