Expressing gratitude for the warm hospitality, Jaishankar began by offering condolences for recent losses and destruction.

“First of all, a very good evening and thank you for the warm hospitality. Let me begin by offering once again the deepest condolences for the loss of life and destruction. We see Japan as a natural partner in India's journey of development and transformation and in our quest for peace, prosperity, and stability,” said EAM S Jaishankar.

“Jaishankar called the year 2023 a “landmark” in India-Japan bilateral relations, witnessing “government-to-government, business-to-business, and people-to-people exchanges thriving across various sectors.”

Pointing out significant engagements, Jaishankar mentioned the discussions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Prime Minister Kishida in Delhi last March. “I take the opportunity to also appreciate Japan's cooperation for a successful G20 presidency this year,” the EAM added.

“So, it is important that we find new ways, give new momentum to our partnership, and deepen our understanding of progression. I look forward to having discussions with you during our talks today to review the progress as well as in charting out further steps,” Jaishankar also said.

Prior to addressing the India-Japan Foreign Ministers Strategic Dialogue, Jaishankar met Taro Aso, a Japanese politician serving as the Vice President of the Liberal Democratic Party.

Jaishankar said that India and Japan have to confront the prospect that the world is now more volatile, uncertain, unpredictable and open-ended.

Jaishankar is on a visit to Japan from March 6-8. Before this, he visited South Korea, where he met the top leaders during his stay.