What to Expect from Japan's PM Sanae Takaichi's Historic Visit to India?

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has arrived in India for a three-day official visit, receiving a ceremonial welcome from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The leaders are set to engage in discussions aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation across various sectors, including economic security and strategic partnerships. Takaichi emphasized the importance of collaboration between Japan and India in maintaining peace in the Indo-Pacific region. This visit also includes the Japan-India Joint Economic Forum, featuring over 150 Japanese companies. As Takaichi embarks on her first official visit to India, the outcomes of these discussions could significantly impact the future of Japan-India relations.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 2, 2026, 10:51 IST

Ceremonial Welcome for Japan's Prime Minister

In New Delhi, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi received a grand ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Thursday.

Upon her arrival, she was warmly greeted by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Later that day, Modi is set to engage in the 16th Annual Summit with Takaichi, where both leaders will assess and enhance their bilateral cooperation while discussing regional and global matters of shared interest.

Takaichi's official visit commenced on Wednesday evening, and it will span three days.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) expressed, "A very warm welcome to Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi of Japan, who arrives in New Delhi on an Official Visit. PM Takaichi was received by MoS Dr. Jitendra Singh. This visit is a significant step in advancing the Special Strategic and Global Partnership between India and Japan."

Before her departure, Takaichi emphasized the significance of Japan's partnership with India in light of the current global landscape.

She stated, "Through this visit, I aim to enhance concrete cooperation with Prime Minister Modi in three critical areas: strengthening the Japan-India strategic partnership considering the current international context; fostering economic security collaboration; and enhancing business cooperation between our nations in investment and innovation," during a press briefing in Tokyo on Wednesday.

Additionally, she mentioned that the Japan-India Joint Economic Forum will convene, featuring representatives from over 150 Japanese companies and business organizations. Takaichi expressed her hope to expand the scope of Japan-India collaboration and build a robust economy through private sector engagement.

Takaichi remarked that both India and Japan bear the responsibility of ensuring peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. She anticipates fruitful discussions with Prime Minister Modi regarding the realization of a Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP).

She added, "India, alongside Japan, is one of Asia's prominent democracies and shares the duty of maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific. In this context, I look forward to comprehensive discussions with Prime Minister Modi on achieving a Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP), including cooperation through the Quad framework. As this visit is made at Prime Minister Modi's invitation, I also hope it will deepen our personal trust."

During her stay, Takaichi is also expected to participate in a business forum, marking her first official visit to India since taking office.