Japan PM Visits India: Semiconductors, Critical Minerals and Strategic Ties on Summit Agenda
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi arrived in New Delhi on Wednesday for a three-day official visit, marking the 16th India-Japan Annual Summit. The visit aims to strengthen the Special Strategic and Global Partnership between the two nations, with a focus on economic security, resilient supply chains, and emerging technologies.
Upon arrival, Takaichi was received by Minister of State Jitendra Singh. The Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal welcomed the Japanese leader on social media, stating that the visit represents an important step in advancing bilateral relations.
During the summit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Takaichi are expected to hold talks covering the full spectrum of bilateral cooperation. Key areas include semiconductors, critical minerals, defence technology, maritime security, and investment. Diplomatic sources indicate that the discussions will emphasize innovation and the development of industrial value chains, particularly connecting the Bay of Bengal with India's northeastern region.
The summit comes amid rising global uncertainties and supply chain disruptions. Both countries are keen to diversify supply chains and strengthen cooperation in strategically important sectors. A joint statement reaffirming the strategic partnership is anticipated, along with several memoranda of understanding in fields such as artificial intelligence, pharmaceuticals, energy resilience, and batteries.
Takaichi is also scheduled to participate in the India-Japan Business Forum, engaging with business leaders to expand economic ties. Proposals under consideration include a large-scale green ammonia project in Odisha, expanded collaboration in biogas, and initiatives under POWERR Asia to enhance regional resilience.
Before departing Tokyo, Takaichi emphasized the growing importance of India in Japan's foreign policy, noting that the changing international environment makes bilateral cooperation even more significant. She stated, 'Amid growing uncertainty in the international situation, the importance of collaboration with India, which shares fundamental values and strategic interests, is only increasing.'
