The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) described the India-Japan relationship as a partnership for the future, built on trust and rooted in shared values, ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's talks with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on Thursday.
Ceremonial Welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi was accorded a warm ceremonial welcome at the forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhavan on Thursday morning, 2 July 2026. The event marked the beginning of her official visit to India, aimed at further strengthening the special strategic and global partnership between the two countries.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal posted on X (formerly Twitter): "Further strengthening our special partnership. PM @takaichi_sanae of Japan was accorded a ceremonial reception at the Forecourt of @rashtrapatibhvn. A partnership for the future, built on trust and rooted in shared values."
Key Areas of Discussion
The talks between PM Modi and PM Takaichi are expected to cover a wide range of bilateral and regional issues, including economic cooperation, defense and security, infrastructure development, and collaboration in the Indo-Pacific region. Both leaders are likely to discuss ways to enhance trade and investment ties, as well as cooperation in technology and innovation.
India and Japan have a long history of friendly relations, underpinned by shared democratic values and a commitment to peace and prosperity. The two countries have been working closely under the framework of the India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership, which was elevated in 2014.
Defense and Security Cooperation
Defense and security cooperation is expected to be a major focus of the talks. India and Japan have been conducting joint military exercises, including the Malabar naval exercise, and have signed agreements for defense equipment and technology cooperation. The leaders are likely to discuss further deepening of defense ties, including possible joint development of defense equipment.
Economic and Infrastructure Projects
Economic cooperation is another key pillar of the bilateral relationship. Japan has been a major investor in India, particularly in infrastructure projects such as the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail corridor. The two sides are expected to review ongoing projects and explore new areas of collaboration, including in the fields of digital technology, startups, and green energy.
Regional and Global Issues
The leaders are also expected to exchange views on regional and global issues of mutual interest, including the situation in the Indo-Pacific region, cooperation under the Quad framework, and reforms of the United Nations. Both countries have been advocating for a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific region based on respect for international law.
The visit of Japanese PM Sanae Takaichi underscores the importance both countries attach to their strategic partnership. The outcome of the talks is expected to set the direction for future cooperation and further consolidate the India-Japan relationship.
