India (Commonwealth Union)_ Prime Minister Narendra Modi‘s recent visit to Japan marks a watershed moment in Indian foreign policy, coming at a time of significant global geopolitical events. As India’s economic problems with the United States escalate, Modi’s three-day official visit to Japan served as both a diplomatic outreach and a geopolitical realignment in Asia. The visit was more than just ceremonial. It produced major outcomes in economics, security, technology, and culture, setting the framework for future partnership over the next decade. During his discussions with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, Modi stressed Japan’s position as a trusted partner in India’s development. The two leaders discussed a shared vision for the Indo-Pacific, economic cooperation, innovation, and mutual security. Their talks culminated in a broad framework to guide the India–Japan partnership until 2035.
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A warm welcome for PM Modi
Prime Minister Modi’s arrival in Tokyo was greeted with a guard of honor and a magnificent and symbolic welcome. The famed Tokyo Skytree, Japan’s tallest structure, was illuminated in the colors of the Indian flag to highlight the two nations’ close relations. Modi was also greeted by members of the Indian diaspora and local Japanese supporters during a cultural event in Tokyo. The atmosphere was celebratory, with traditional Indian folk songs and Sanskrit mantras performed by Japanese artists, including a group dressed in Rajasthani attire.
This unique blend of Indian and Japanese traditions created a moving scene, reflecting the cultural bridges that have formed between the two societies. Modi acknowledged the emotional reception in a post on X, saying, “Deeply touched by the warmth and affection of the Indian community here in Tokyo. Their commitment to preserving our cultural roots while contributing meaningfully to Japanese society is truly commendable.”
Strategic talks and economic agreements
The core of Modi’s visit began with bilateral summit talks alongside Prime Minister Ishiba. The two leaders addressed the status of current initiatives and explored new areas of partnership. Their conversations resulted in a common ten-year vision centered on eight critical themes: economic partnership, economic security, technology and innovation, sustainable development, mobility, health, people-to-people contacts, and regional cooperation. At the India–Japan Economic Forum, PM Modi highlighted Japan’s contribution to India’s development. He said, “From metros to semiconductors, Japan’s investments, over $40 billion, have supported India’s growth. As Japan brings technology, India offers talent. Together, we are building a shared future.”
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Key agreements signed
The visit saw the signing of 13 major agreements and memorandums of understanding (MoUs), including:
- India–Japan Joint Vision for the Next Decade
- Declaration on Security Cooperation
- Human Resource Exchange Action Plan
- Digital Partnership 2.0 MoU
- Clean Hydrogen and Ammonia Cooperation Declaration
- Space Collaboration Agreement between ISRO and JAXA
- Environmental and Cultural Exchange MoUs
- Joint Crediting Mechanism for Carbon Reduction
- Mineral Resources Cooperation Agreement
- Decentralised Wastewater Management MoU
- Cooperation Between Foreign Service Institutes
- Science and Technology Statement of Intent
- Pharmaceutical and Semiconductor Supply Chain Partnership
Japan to invest $67 billion in India
One of the biggest announcements came from Japan’s business sector. Tokyo has vowed to spend ¥10 trillion (about $67 billion) in India over the next decade. This promise was bolstered by the signing of approximately 150 Memorandums of Understanding worth more than $13 billion during the Business Leaders Forum, with a focus on areas such as manufacturing, clean energy, and digital infrastructure. Japan’s investments are likely to significantly support India’s infrastructure development, with a focus on smart cities, transportation, and semiconductor manufacturing.
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AI, semiconductors, and technology collaboration
India and Japan launched the Japan-India AI Initiative, which aims to establish cooperative capabilities in artificial intelligence, data centers, big language models, and responsible AI governance. Both governments also reiterated their commitment to creating safe semiconductor supply chains, essential minerals, and clean technology. The project supports the development of next-generation computing, quantum research, and AI-focused businesses in both nations.
India-Japan cooperation on the moon mission
A major highlight of the visit was Japan’s promise to assist India’s future Chandrayaan-5 LUPEX lunar mission, which will study the Moon’s south pole for signs of water and possible habitability. Accordingly, Indian astronauts are also preparing for a possible Moon landing by 2040, and Japan’s technological expertise will assist in expediting that effort.
Security cooperation: A stronger strategic bond
A new declaration on security cooperation aims to enhance ties between India and Japan in sectors like cybersecurity, counterterrorism, defense technology, and maritime cooperation. Both leaders emphasized the significance of upholding common democratic norms and ensuring a peaceful and stable Indo-Pacific region. India has declared that it is opening its civilian nuclear industry to private investment and encouraging Japanese involvement, indicating a significant shift in policy.
Human resource exchange: Pathways for Indian talent
Japan and India have agreed to a structured action plan to enable the movement of half a million people between the two countries over the next five years. This includes a pipeline for 50,000 qualified and semi-skilled Indian people to live and work in Japan, aided by improved Japanese language training programs in India.
Mobility, infrastructure, and the bullet train showcase
PM Modi and PM Ishiba took a symbolic ride on Japan’s famed Shinkansen bullet train, traveling to Sendai. The high-speed rail journey showcased Japan’s transportation technology, technology that is also central to India’s ambitious Mumbai–Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail project, which is progressing rapidly and is expected to begin passenger operations in the coming years.
Climate and clean energy commitments
Both countries agreed to strengthen cooperation on climate action. The Joint Crediting Mechanism would enable Japanese investments to boost India’s decarbonization initiatives, particularly in green hydrogen and solar technology. India reiterated its goal of reaching 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030, with Japan playing a vital partner role.
A shared vision for the Indo-Pacific
The two leaders published a joint declaration titled “A Partnership for Security and Prosperity for Our Next Generation,” which reaffirmed their commitment to a free, open, inclusive, and rules-based Indo-Pacific. This is consistent with India’s “Act East Policy” and maritime doctrines such as SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) and Japan’s Free and Open Indo-Pacific Strategy. Both nations remain involved in international venues such as the Quad and the India-Japan-Australia Supply Chain Initiative.
Science, culture, and people-to-people ties
The year 2025–2026 has been designated as the “India–Japan Year of Science, Technology and Innovation Exchanges,” celebrating four decades of scientific collaboration. On the cultural front, India and Japan today have over 665 institutional educational ties, and the Indian diaspora in Japan has increased to more than 54,000. Upcoming events, such as the India Pavilion at Expo 2025 in Osaka and widespread participation in the International Day of Yoga, will enhance the cultural ties between the two nations.
Trade
Bilateral trade between India and Japan touched USD 22.85 billion in FY 2023–2024. India exports chemicals, vehicles, aluminum, and seafood to Japan, while importing machinery, steel, electronics, and copper. Japan remains India’s largest bilateral aid donor and a top investor, with over 1,400 Japanese companies and 5,000 business establishments operating in India.
Statements from the leaders
Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated, “Japan’s excellence and India’s scale create the perfect partnership. Together, we can shape an Asian century defined by stability, growth, and prosperity.” Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba added, “The India–Japan relationship is grounded in shared democratic values. It is vital for a peaceful, rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific.”
A partnership of purpose
PM Modi’s 2025 visit to Japan clearly signals a deeper and more structured strategic partnership. From moon missions to bullet trains, and from AI to clean energy, the range and depth of collaboration between the two countries continue to grow. As the world becomes more complex and divided, India and Japan are demonstrating how like-minded democracies can work together for peace, innovation, and inclusive growth, not just for Asia, but for the world.
