Fumio Kishida A Strong Advocate Of India–Japan Ties, Says PM Modi

On Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met former Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida. The discussion focused on trade, critical technologies, and human resource mobility, reviewing the state of bilateral relations.

Taking to X, PM Modi posted, “Had a wonderful meeting with the former Prime Minister of Japan, Mr. Fumio Kishida. He has always been a great advocate of closer India–Japan relations. We discussed the progress in our bilateral partnership across trade, critical technologies and human resource mobility. We also discussed the vast potential in emerging areas such as technology and semiconductors.”

The Prime Minister also met former Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga, who chairs the Japan–India Association.

Taking to X, PM Modi posted, “I had a very good meeting with Mr. Yoshihide Suga, former Prime Minister of Japan and Chairperson of the Japan-India Association. We spoke about the many dimensions of India–Japan cooperation and how we can further deepen it. Our discussions covered how to build closer collaboration, including in technology, AI, trade, investment and beyond.”

Earlier in the day, PM Modi and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba jointly addressed the India–Japan Economic Forum in Tokyo.

The gathering brought together CEOs and industry leaders from diverse sectors.

In his remarks, PM Modi highlighted the depth of India’s economic engagement with Japan. He also identified key areas where collaboration could expand further.

In another post on X, PM Modi posted, “Addressed a business event in Tokyo. The presence of Prime Minister Ishiba made this even more special, also indicating the priority we accord to bilateral economic linkages. Spoke about India’s deep economic ties with Japan and also listed areas where cooperation can deepen in the years to come: Like we did in automobiles, recreate the same magic in batteries, robotics, semiconductors, shipbuilding, nuclear energy.”

“Tech–Talent synergy to power this century’s technology revolution. Green energy focus for a better future. Next-gen infrastructure, where Japan’s excellence and India’s scale can do wonders. Skill development and people-to-people ties,” the post added.

Later on Friday, PM Modi will take part in the 15th India–Japan Annual Summit. This will be his first summit with Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba.

The two leaders will also hold a working dinner and travel together to Miyagi Prefecture on Saturday.

This visit is PM Modi’s eighth trip to Japan, his previous one taking place in May 2023. He also met Ishiba earlier this year at the G7 Summit in Canada and last year during the ASEAN–India Summit in Laos.

On arrival in Tokyo, the Prime Minister was welcomed by Japan’s Ambassador to India ONO Keiichi, India’s Ambassador to Japan Sibi George and other senior officials.

Members of the Indian community greeted him warmly with cultural performances.

Expressing his appreciation, the Prime Minister posted, “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. In a few hours from now, will be interacting with a group of business leaders with a focus on adding vigour to India-Japan trade and investment ties.”

After wrapping up his engagements in Japan, PM Modi will head to Tianjin, China. There, he will attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit, scheduled for 31 August–1 September.

Also Read: Collaboration In Tech, AI And Beyond, Says PM Modi On Meeting Former Japanese PM Yoshihide Suga