In a significant diplomatic development, India and Japan engaged in discussions on Thursday aimed at strengthening their bilateral relationship in response to evolving geopolitical and geo-economic dynamics. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held talks with his Japanese counterpart Yoko Kamikawa in Tokyo, where the two leaders underscored the importance of new measures to enhance cooperation in various sectors.
Highlighting the progress made in defense and security ties between the two nations, Jaishankar emphasized ongoing joint exercises between the Indian Army and Japan’s Self-Defense Force in Rajasthan. Additionally, he noted the smooth engagement between the defense services and Coast Guard of both countries through reciprocal access to logistics arrangements.
Jaishankar emphasized the need for proactive steps to align the bilateral relationship with emerging geopolitical, geo-economic, and geo-technological trends. Discussions also encompassed cooperation in military jointness, cyber, and space domains, along with progress in defense equipment and technology collaboration.
Economic cooperation featured prominently in the discussions, with Jaishankar highlighting the potential for increased Japanese investment in India, particularly from Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). Both sides are striving to achieve the shared target of five trillion yen in overall investments.
Infrastructure development, including flagship projects like the Mumbai-Ahmedabad high-speed railway, was also a focal point of the discussions. Jaishankar welcomed Japan’s developmental role in India’s northeastern states, emphasizing its transformative impact on connectivity and industry in the region.
The leaders also agreed to explore coordinated development partnership initiatives in third countries, extending the scope of their cooperation beyond bilateral ties.
Addressing economic security and supply chain resilience, Jaishankar stressed the importance of strategic collaboration in trade and technology. Discussions encompassed possibilities in semiconductor ecosystem, green technologies, and digital payments, leveraging the complementary strengths of both nations.
Jaishankar also raised the issue of a more facilitative visa regime for Indian tourists and citizens traveling to Japan, underscoring the shared interest in enhancing mobility for Indian talent and skills in Japan.
The discussions between India and Japan underscored the depth of their strategic partnership and the commitment to fostering collaboration across diverse sectors for mutual benefit and regional stability.
Sources By Agencies