Japan and India reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations, with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi describing the partnership as a “brother and sister” bond during high-level talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi. The remarks came during a joint press interaction following their meeting at Hyderabad House, where both leaders emphasized deeper cooperation amid rising global uncertainties.
Takaichi expressed appreciation for the warm reception in India and highlighted PM Modi’s affectionate reference to her as a “younger sister,” saying the gesture reflected the strong personal and diplomatic connection between the two countries. She stressed that Japan and India must combine their respective strengths to achieve shared prosperity and greater resilience in an unpredictable global environment.
She noted that both nations are aligned in their broader vision of the international order and are committed to expanding strategic cooperation. Referring to Japan’s updated Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP) framework, she said it focuses on resilience and self-reliance. She added that India’s MAHASAGAR initiative, which emphasizes the Indian Ocean as a shared space for stability and growth, closely complements Japan’s Indo-Pacific strategy.
Maritime security emerged as a key priority during the discussions. Takaichi highlighted ongoing and planned naval cooperation, including joint exercises between Japan’s Maritime Self-Defense Force and the Indian Navy. Both sides also agreed to expand training activities in the Indian Ocean, strengthen maintenance and repair cooperation for naval assets, and enhance defense equipment collaboration under India’s “Make in India” initiative.
Economic and developmental cooperation also featured prominently in the talks. Takaichi referred to India’s long-term development vision under the Viksit Bharat 2047 initiative, noting that both countries share a commitment to future-oriented growth and investment. She said the partnership is increasingly focused on strengthening economic ties that support innovation, infrastructure, and sustainable development.
Looking ahead, Takaichi pointed to the upcoming 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Japan in 2027 as a major milestone. She said both countries are preparing to elevate their Special Strategic Global Partnership to a new phase, with a stronger focus on people-to-people ties, security cooperation, and economic collaboration.
She concluded by expressing optimism about the future of the relationship, stating her intention to welcome PM Modi to Japan soon and further deepen engagement under the shared strategic framework.
