What Did Japan's Foreign Minister Discuss with India's PM Modi? Insights from Their Strategic Meeting

Strengthening Ties: Japan and India as Natural Partners

Tokyo/New Delhi: Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi visited New Delhi on Friday, where he met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. During their discussion, he emphasized that Japan and India are 'natural partners' united by shared values and strategic interests.

The meeting, which lasted around 50 minutes, was noted by Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Motegi expressed his desire to collaborate on realizing a 'Free and Open Indo-Pacific' through their robust bilateral relationship. PM Modi welcomed the minister's visit and expressed hopes for enhanced cooperation under the Japan-India Special Strategic and Global Partnership.

Both leaders agreed to boost bilateral exchanges in 2027, marking the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations.

The discussions also revolved around the 'Japan-India Joint Vision for the Next Decade,' which was introduced during PM Modi's visit to Japan last August. They exchanged views on various topics, including security, economic security, investment, innovation, and people-to-people exchanges, aiming to elevate their relationship further.

Motegi, who arrived in New Delhi late Thursday, co-chaired the 18th India-Japan Strategic Dialogue with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. Their talks covered economic cooperation, maritime security, supply chains, critical minerals, technology, and multilateral collaboration.

EAM Jaishankar expressed his satisfaction in co-chairing the dialogue, highlighting the upward trajectory of their Special Strategic and Global Partnership, which has significant potential for influencing global dynamics and mitigating risks in the international economy.

He noted that the discussions reflected their mutual interests and understanding, including perspectives on the Indo-Pacific and other regional and global developments.

Earlier, Jaishankar warmly welcomed Motegi, sharing a light moment over their mutual love for cricket. He presented Motegi with a jersey from the Japan national cricket team and received a bat signed by the Indian cricket team.

In his opening remarks, Jaishankar reiterated India's commitment to collaborating with Japan in international forums such as the Quad, the United Nations, and the G20.

He emphasized the importance of their friendship, noting the transformation of their relationship from primarily economic to a comprehensive strategic partnership over the last two decades. Jaishankar highlighted the significance of working together in international forums, especially in light of the current global uncertainties.

As they prepare to celebrate 75 years of diplomatic ties in 2027, he remarked that their special partnership continues to grow stronger.