File image of Japanese PM Sanae Takaichi and PM Modi(Photo: @JapanAmbIndia/X)

New Delhi, June 1: On Wednesday, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi embarked on a three-day trip to India, where she is set to engage in summit discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The focus of these talks will be on enhancing bilateral collaboration in areas such as economic security, semiconductors, artificial intelligence (AI), and building resilient supply chains.

This visit marks the 16th Annual Summit between India and Japan, a key framework for their Special Strategic and Global Partnership.

Before her departure, Takaichi emphasized the increasing significance of strengthening ties with India in light of the current global uncertainties. "As the international landscape becomes more unpredictable, the need for collaboration with India, which shares our core values and strategic interests, is becoming increasingly vital," she stated during an informal press briefing.

She also pointed out the economic aspects of her visit, noting that over 150 representatives from Japan's business sector are part of her delegation, aiming to foster bilateral cooperation through public-private partnerships. "With the involvement of more than 150 members from Japan's business community, we seek to expand Japan-India cooperation and build a robust economy," she remarked.

Takaichi is expected to arrive in New Delhi later on Wednesday, where she will receive a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Thursday morning before her discussions with Modi.

Sources indicate that the two leaders will concentrate on bolstering economic relations, enhancing semiconductor supply chains, and increasing collaboration in artificial intelligence. They are also likely to discuss critical minerals and pharmaceuticals.

Post-summit, India and Japan are anticipated to announce a joint declaration on economic security cooperation, along with a separate statement on AI collaboration. Approximately ten agreements are expected to be finalized during this visit.

Additionally, the Japanese Prime Minister will engage in a joint economic forum with business leaders from both nations during her stay.

Since elevating their relationship to a Special Strategic and Global Partnership in 2014, India and Japan have seen their cooperation grow across various sectors, including trade, investment, economic security, defense, science and technology, culture, and people-to-people exchanges.

As both countries prepare to celebrate the 75th anniversary of their diplomatic relations in 2027, their partnership now includes over 70 dialogue mechanisms.

Prime Minister Modi visited Tokyo for the 15th Annual Summit in August of the previous year, with this annual summit continuing to be the primary platform for advancing the strategic partnership between India and Japan.