Hailing the strong bond between India and Japan, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasized the significance of collaboration with Tokyo in global platforms like the Quad, the United Nations, and the G20. During the 18th India-Japan Strategic Dialogue in New Delhi, Jaishankar highlighted the evolution of the relationship from purely economic to a comprehensive and strategic partnership.
Jaishankar underscored India’s deep commitment to its friendship with Japan, emphasizing the transition of their ties over the past two decades. He stressed the importance of working closely with Japan in international forums, citing the Quad, the United Nations, G4 membership, and the G20 as key areas of collaboration. The minister also acknowledged the alignment of India’s Indo-Pacific vision with Japan’s Free and Open Indo-Pacific outlook.
Recognizing the shared strategic goals amid global uncertainties, Jaishankar welcomed Japanese counterpart Toshimitsu Motegi, emphasizing the responsibility of both nations as leading democracies and major economies to shape the global order. He highlighted the upcoming 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2027, characterizing the partnership as special, strategic, and globally significant.
India and Japan’s discussions focused on key priorities in their bilateral relations, building on previous talks with the Prime Minister. Jaishankar noted the Indo-Pacific convergence illustrated by Motegi’s visits to the Philippines, Qatar, Israel, and Palestine, emphasizing shared interests in the West Asia and Middle East regions. The meeting aimed to address various commonalities, including energy, underscoring the extensive agenda for discussions.
