New Delhi: Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is on a three-day visit to India for the 16th India-Japan Annual Summit, where she will hold bilateral talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The summit is expected to focus on strengthening cooperation in economic security, artificial intelligence (AI), semiconductors, critical minerals, clean energy, and defence, reflecting the growing strategic partnership between the two countries.
One of the key outcomes expected from the summit is the adoption of an Economic Security Declaration, aimed at enhancing collaboration in resilient supply chains, critical technologies, energy security and trusted manufacturing. The declaration is expected to strengthen cooperation in sectors considered vital for national and economic security amid global geopolitical uncertainties.
Artificial intelligence is another major focus area. India and Japan are expected to expand collaboration in AI research, governance, digital infrastructure and semiconductor manufacturing, with both countries seeking to build secure and reliable technology ecosystems while reducing dependence on vulnerable global supply chains.
Energy security is also high on the agenda. The two countries are expected to sign an LNG (liquefied natural gas) supply security agreement, aimed at ensuring stable energy supplies amid continuing disruptions in global energy markets. Discussions will also cover cooperation in clean energy, hydrogen, and critical minerals required for the transition to low-carbon technologies.
The leaders are also expected to review progress on major bilateral projects, including the Mumbai–Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail Corridor, Japanese investments in India, manufacturing partnerships, and initiatives under the Make in India programme. Japan remains one of India’s largest foreign investors, with nearly 1,400 Japanese companies operating across sectors such as automobiles, electronics, infrastructure and manufacturing. Bilateral trade reached approximately $27.5 billion in the 2025–26 financial year.
Regional security and the Indo-Pacific will feature prominently in the discussions. As members of the Quad, alongside the United States and Australia, India and Japan are expected to reaffirm their commitment to a free, open and rules-based Indo-Pacific, while exploring deeper cooperation in maritime security, defence technology and regional connectivity.
The summit is expected to conclude with several agreements across technology, trade, energy and strategic cooperation, further reinforcing the India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership at a time of increasing global economic and geopolitical challenges.
