Japan and India Commit to a Free and Open Indo-Pacific
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on Thursday declared that a free, prosperous, and rules-based Indo-Pacific is a shared priority for Japan and India. Speaking during her press statement in New Delhi, Takaichi emphasized that both nations, as the region's largest democratic and market economies, have launched several significant initiatives to pave the way for peace, stability, and progress across the entire region.
Takaichi noted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi referred to her as a younger sister, highlighting the enhanced cooperation between the two countries. “You call me beautiful younger sister… We are on the same page. The establishment of this relationship has become more important,” she said, underscoring the deepening strategic cooperation between Japan and India.
Key Announcements: Joint Exercises and 2+2 Meeting
Takaichi announced that Japanese forces and an Indian naval vessel are planning a joint exercise. Additionally, the Japan-India 2+2 ministerial dialogue will take place before the end of this year. Japan also expressed support for India's membership in the International Energy Agency (IEA). These steps are part of the updated Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP) policy recently announced by Takaichi.
The Japanese PM stated, “Today, both India and Japan are among the world's largest economies. A free, prosperous, and rules-based Indo-Pacific is our shared priority. As the region's largest democratic and market economies, we have undertaken several significant initiatives today. Together, these will pave the way for peace, stability, and progress across the entire region.”
Memoranda of Cooperation Signed
Earlier in the day, several Memoranda of Cooperation (MoCs) were signed between the two countries. These include an MoC between the Geological Survey of India and the Japan Organization for Metals and Energy Security in the field of geology and mineral exploration. Another MoC was signed in the pharmaceuticals and medical devices sectors. Additionally, an MoC between the Ministry of Heavy Industries of India and the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry of Japan focused on the field of batteries. A further MoC between the Ministry of Cooperation and the Department of Animal Husbandry aims to expand biogas and organic fertilizer production and utilization for total prosperity, energy security, and sustainable mobility.
Bilateral Talks and Ceremonial Welcome
Prime Minister Modi and PM Takaichi held bilateral talks at Hyderabad House, marking another step in further strengthening the special partnership built on trust. Prior to the talks, Takaichi was accorded a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan. During the reception, PM Modi introduced his cabinet colleagues and other dignitaries to the Japanese PM.
Takaichi is on a three-day official visit to India from July 1 to 3 at the invitation of Prime Minister Modi. During the visit, she will participate in the 16th India-Japan Annual Summit, which is expected to review the full spectrum of bilateral cooperation and discuss regional and global issues of mutual interest.
Long-Standing Friendship and Shared Values
India and Japan share a long-standing friendship rooted in centuries of cultural and civilizational exchange, spiritual affinity, and shared values of freedom, democracy, and respect for the rule of law. The latest developments underscore the commitment of both nations to deepen their strategic partnership and work together for a stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific region.
