Rama Krishna Sangem
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Japanese counterpart Shigeru Ishiba on August 29 Friday shared bonhomie and talked business during their meeting in Tokyo. Interestingly, this is Modi’s first visit to a G7 country after US President Trump imposed higher 50 per cent tariffs on Indian imports to America. Both Modi and Shigeru signed some MoUs on trade, technology transfer and investments for the next few years.
They both participated in the 15th India–Japan Annual Summit at Kantei, the official residence of the Japanese PM. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval, India’s Ambassador to Japan Sibi George, and other senior officials were also present. PM Modi was accorded a ceremonial welcome and a Guard of Honour at Kantei before the summit discussions.
Earlier in the day, PM Modi and Prime Minister Ishiba addressed the India–Japan Economic Forum, which saw participation from CEOs and business leaders across diverse sectors. In his address, PM Modi underscored the depth of India’s economic ties with Japan and highlighted new areas of cooperation for the future.
Deep economic ties with Japan
“Addressed a business event in Tokyo. The presence of Prime Minister Ishiba made this even more special, reflecting 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, we can recreate the same success in batteries, robotics, semiconductors, shipbuilding, and nuclear energy,” said PM Modi on X.
“Tech–Talent synergy will 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 will remain central to this journey,” he added.
During his Tokyo visit, PM Modi also met former Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida. The two leaders discussed progress in bilateral cooperation, particularly in trade, critical technologies, and human resource mobility.
“Had a wonderful meeting with the former Prime Minister of Japan, Mr. Fumio Kishida. He has always been a strong advocate of closer India–Japan relations. We discussed the progress in our bilateral partnership across trade, critical technologies and human resource mobility, as well as the vast potential in emerging areas such as technology and semiconductors,” said PM Modi on X.
From Japan, Modi will go to China to participate in SCO summit at Tianjin where he will meet Xi Jinping and Putin, among other world leaders.
