India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar kicked off the 18th India-Japan Strategic Dialogue by affirming New Delhi’s supreme emphasis on cooperating with Tokyo on international forums. Hosting Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi in New Delhi, Jaishankar detailed how bilateral relations have matured from economic foundations to a strategic powerhouse.
‘India gives utmost priority to our friendship with Japan, focusing on broad and strategic collaboration,’ Jaishankar declared. He spotlighted forums like Quad, UN, G4 membership, and G20 as immediate areas of joint action. The Indo-Pacific framework, first articulated by Japanese leaders in Indian Parliament, resonates deeply with India’s vision.
In uncertain global times, Jaishankar urged unified efforts towards shared strategic objectives. Both countries, as premier democracies and economic powerhouses, must actively shape the world order. He fondly recalled previous meetings and noted Motegi’s itinerary, illustrating interconnected interests from Indo-Pacific to Middle East energy links.
With the 75th diplomatic anniversary looming in 2027, the special global partnership is surging forward. Agenda items include bilateral priorities discussed with PM Modi and regional convergences. The unique amity, symbolized by Modi-Kishida-Abe interactions, elevates this beyond conventional partnerships.
This dialogue reinforces commitments to mutual prosperity and security. As geopolitical tensions rise, India-Japan alignment could drive initiatives in trade, technology, and maritime security, fostering a rules-based international environment.