PM Modi in G20 Summit: On the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Johannesburg, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held his first in-person meeting with Japan’s newly appointed Prime Minister, Sanae Takaichi, marking a significant step in India-Japan relations. The meeting, which took place on Sunday, underscored the leaders’ shared commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation across strategic, technological, and economic domains.
Prime Minister Modi took to X (formerly Twitter) to share highlights from the discussion, stating: “Had a productive meeting with Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi of Japan. We discussed ways to add momentum to bilateral cooperation in areas such as innovation, defence, talent mobility and more. We are also looking to enhance trade ties between our nations. A strong India-Japan partnership is vital for a better planet.”
The meeting reaffirmed the enduring significance of the India–Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership, a framework anchored in shared democratic values, longstanding bilateral ties, and a mutual commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific. Both leaders stressed that deepening this partnership is essential not only for regional stability but also for global peace, prosperity, and security.
Progress and Strategic Priorities
During the meeting, PM Modi and Prime Minister Takaichi reviewed progress made since the 15th India–Japan Annual Summit. They emphasized the importance of fast-tracking agreements across multiple sectors, including defence and security, trade and investment, small and medium enterprises (SMEs), artificial intelligence, critical minerals, semiconductors, infrastructure, technology and innovation, and people-to-people exchanges.
A notable highlight was Takaichi’s strong support for the AI Summit India is scheduled to host in February 2026, signaling Japan’s willingness to actively collaborate on emerging technologies and digital innovation. Both leaders agreed that coordinated efforts in these sectors are essential for maintaining competitiveness and addressing global challenges.
Defence and Technology Cooperation at the Forefront
Defence and technology cooperation formed a key part of the discussions. Both PM Modi and Takaichi emphasized the importance of joint initiatives in security, defence production, and technology innovation. By enhancing collaboration in these critical sectors, India and Japan aim to strengthen regional stability and contribute to a rules-based Indo-Pacific order.
The leaders also exchanged views on opportunities for collaboration in strategic sectors such as semiconductors, critical minerals, and infrastructure development. These sectors are seen as vital not only for domestic growth but also for enhancing supply-chain resilience and fostering innovation-driven economies.
Trade, Investment, and People-to-People Ties
Economic cooperation and trade were another major focus of the meeting. Both leaders agreed on the need to enhance trade ties between India and Japan, especially in high-value sectors such as technology, energy, and infrastructure. Small and medium enterprises were highlighted as key drivers of bilateral growth, with discussions focusing on facilitating partnerships, investments, and innovation exchanges.
People-to-people exchanges were also underscored as a cornerstone of the India-Japan partnership. Both leaders emphasized educational, cultural, and talent mobility initiatives, recognizing that these connections form the foundation of a strong, enduring bilateral relationship.
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Regional and Global Outlook
The discussions also covered broader regional and global developments. PM Modi and Takaichi highlighted the importance of India and Japan continuing to act as trusted partners, working collaboratively to maintain peace and stability not only in the Indo-Pacific region but across the globe. Both leaders expressed their determination to coordinate closely on international issues, reflecting the strategic convergence of their foreign policies.
A History of Cooperation and Continued Engagement
This meeting marked the first in-person interaction between PM Modi and Prime Minister Takaichi since her appointment as Japan’s first female Prime Minister. Prior to this summit, the two leaders had spoken on October 29, when PM Modi congratulated Takaichi and discussed advancing the India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership. Sunday’s meeting reinforced that dialogue, translating prior discussions into concrete steps toward enhanced cooperation.
Both leaders concluded the meeting by agreeing to maintain regular communication and to meet again at the earliest opportunity. Their discussions underscored the enduring strength of India-Japan ties and highlighted the shared vision of a prosperous, stable, and secure Indo-Pacific region.
Global Significance of India-Japan Partnership
The India-Japan partnership holds strategic importance not only for the two nations but also for global stability and economic progress. By aligning on defence, technology, trade, and innovation, both countries are positioning themselves as key drivers of regional and global development. The meeting between PM Modi and Takaichi at the G20 Summit further signals India’s commitment to fostering international partnerships built on trust, mutual respect, and shared values.
As the world watches, the outcomes of such high-level meetings underscore the growing influence of India-Japan collaboration in shaping a free, open, and prosperous global order. With shared priorities in defence, technology, and trade, the two nations are well poised to set benchmarks in bilateral cooperation that could inspire similar strategic partnerships worldwide.
