The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has stated that further details regarding Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's upcoming visit to India will be disclosed at an appropriate time. MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal made this announcement during a press briefing in New Delhi on Tuesday, responding to queries from media personnel.
Visit Likely in New Delhi Due to Logistical Constraints
While Guwahati was initially considered as a potential venue for summit-level talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and PM Takaichi, sources indicate that the visit is now expected to take place in New Delhi. The change is attributed to Takaichi's tight schedule and logistical challenges associated with a visit outside the capital. “Given PM Takaichi's domestic commitments, the window between her proposed arrival in India and her departure is quite tight. In view of this and the additional logistical issues connected to a visit outside the capital, the visit is likely to be held in Delhi,” sources said. They added that this arrangement would also accommodate certain programming elements aimed at boosting bilateral ties.
First Woman Prime Minister of Japan to Visit India
Takaichi, who assumed office on October 21 last year, is Japan's first woman Prime Minister. Her maiden visit to India is scheduled between July 1 and July 3. She is a protégé of the late former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who had planned a visit to Guwahati in December 2019 for summit talks with PM Modi, but the trip was postponed.
Focus on Security and Economic Cooperation
According to reports from Japanese media, Takaichi is expected to be accompanied by leaders from over 50 Japanese companies and organizations. Talks with PM Modi are anticipated to cover concrete measures for cooperation in security and economic fields, building on the Japan-India joint vision for the next decade announced during PM Modi's visit to Japan last year. Earlier this month, on the sidelines of the G7 summit in France, PM Modi emphasized that India and Japan will continue to deepen ties across diverse sectors, with trade and investment remaining priority areas.
Assam Chief Minister's Earlier Hint
Last week, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma had hinted at the possibility of the Japanese Prime Minister visiting Guwahati on July 1 for summit-level talks with PM Modi. However, the latest developments suggest that the summit will be held in the national capital.
