India and Japan reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening defence and strategic cooperation as Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh met Japanese Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi in Tokyo on Monday. The discussions focused on regional developments, defence industry collaboration, and ways to further deepen the partnership between the two countries.
Following the meeting, Koizumi shared that Singh’s visit marked an important opportunity for both sides to hold extensive and constructive discussions. The talks covered the evolving regional security environment, defence manufacturing cooperation, and other areas of mutual interest. The engagement highlighted the growing importance of India-Japan relations amid changing geopolitical dynamics.
During his visit, Defence Secretary Singh also paid tribute to Japan’s fallen service members by laying a wreath at the Self-Defense Forces Memorial Stone in Tokyo. The solemn ceremony honored the courage and sacrifices of those who gave their lives in service of their country. The tribute reflected the shared values, mutual trust, and commitment to peace and stability that form the foundation of the India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership.
Singh’s visit followed Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s recent trip to India from July 1 to July 3. It was Takaichi’s first visit to the country after taking office. During the visit, she and Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in the 16th India-Japan Annual Summit, where both leaders discussed expanding cooperation across multiple sectors.
The summit resulted in progress on key areas, including economic security, clean energy, artificial intelligence, critical technologies, and research and development. Both nations adopted important documents, including a Joint Declaration on Economic Security, a Joint Statement on AI cooperation, and a Joint Statement focused on energy resilience.
The two leaders also witnessed the exchange of several agreements and Memoranda of Understanding aimed at improving investment opportunities, strengthening supply chains, and promoting manufacturing partnerships. The initiatives are aligned with the vision of building stronger industrial ties and advancing the goal of “Make in India for the World.”
Additionally, Modi and Takaichi addressed the India-Japan Joint Economic Forum, emphasizing the role of businesses in driving bilateral growth. Discussions centered on increasing investments, encouraging clean energy development, and expanding collaboration in emerging technologies. Both nations also agreed on activities to mark 75 years of diplomatic relations, further highlighting their long-standing partnership.
