Following a meeting with PM Modi, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi announced increased strategic, defense, and maritime cooperation. Both countries emphasized strengthening their partnership in the Indo-Pacific.

Modi-Takaichi meeting

Stressing the need for deeper cooperation amid growing global uncertainty, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on Thursday (July 2) said Japan and India should work together to build on their respective strengths for prosperity. At a joint press conference after talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Hyderabad House in New Delhi , she thanked him for the warm welcome and expressed happiness at PM Modi affectionately calling her his younger sister.

Sanae Takaichi stated that the two countries share a strong sense of common ground and are committed to further strengthening their sibling-like relationship. PM Takaichi stated, "Japan and India should leverage their respective strengths to become stronger and more prosperous together. Given the current global situation, such cooperation has become more essential than ever."

strategic cooperation

The two leaders discussed a wide range of issues and identified three key areas to advance the partnership. Takaichi stated that the first goal is to further deepen India-Japan strategic cooperation. He cited the recently updated FOIP (Free and Open Indo-Pacific) policy, which focuses on self-reliance and resilience.

On maritime security

He said Prime Minister Modi views the ocean as a vehicle for regional stability and development, and his "Great Ocean" initiative is consistent with the objectives of the FOIP. Both sides agreed to strengthen strategic cooperation and maritime security to achieve shared goals.

The Japanese PM stated that a destroyer from the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force and an Indian Navy ship are planning to conduct joint operations. Joint exercises in the Indian Ocean will be expanded. Cooperation in naval maintenance, repair, and defense equipment under the "Make in India" initiative will be strengthened.

New era partnership

Referring to Prime Minister Modi's "Develop India" initiative, Takaichi said that both countries want to further strengthen their economies through future-oriented investments. He noted that this year marks 75 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries. He expressed confidence that India-Japan relations are now entering a new phase, and he looks forward to welcoming Prime Minister Modi to Japan next time.