Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a telephonic conversation with Japan’s newly elected Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on Wednesday, congratulating her on assuming office and reaffirming that stronger India-Japan ties are essential for global peace, stability, and prosperity.
Modi-Takaichi Discuss Economic and Defence Cooperation
Sharing details of their conversation on X, PM Modi said, “Had a warm conversation with Sanae Takaichi, Prime Minister of Japan. Congratulated her on assuming office and discussed our shared vision for advancing the India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership, with focus on economic security, defence cooperation and talent mobility.” He added that both leaders agreed on the vital role of a stronger India-Japan partnership in ensuring global stability.
Takaichi Promises Stronger Indo-Pacific Collaboration
Earlier, PM Modi had congratulated Takaichi on becoming Japan’s first woman Prime Minister, expressing confidence in deeper cooperation “for peace, stability, and prosperity across the Indo-Pacific and beyond.” Responding on X, PM Takaichi thanked Modi, saying she looked forward to further promoting the Japan-India Special Strategic and Global Partnership.
In her first policy address to the Japanese Parliament (Diet), Takaichi pledged to enhance cooperation with India, South Korea, the Philippines, and Australia to advance a “free and open Indo-Pacific.” She also emphasized maintaining a “constructive and stable” relationship with China while strengthening Japan’s alliance with the United States, which she described as the “cornerstone” of Tokyo’s security policy.
Japan’s Defence and Economic Priorities Under Takaichi
Takaichi announced her intention to increase Japan’s defence spending to 2% of GDP by March, two years ahead of the previous 2027 target. She also outlined an aggressive fiscal policy to address rising living costs, calling it her government’s “top priority.”
As the 64-year-old Liberal Democratic Party leader takes charge, both India and Japan reaffirmed their commitment to expanding collaboration in security, technology, and economic resilience across the Indo-Pacific region.
