Japan’s Takaichi eyes visit to India in early July for talks with PM Modi

Japanese Minister Sanae Takaichi is considering a trip to India in early July to meet with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, according to government sources. The visit aims to bolster cooperation between the two nations, particularly in strengthening supply chains for critical goods and advancing in cutting-edge technologies like semiconductors and artificial intelligence. These discussions are taking place against a backdrop of growing concerns about China's economic coercion.

The agenda for the potential summit is expected to be broad, encompassing defense and economic matters. A key topic will likely be India's high-speed railway project connecting Mumbai and Ahmedabad, which utilizes Japanese bullet train technology. This collaboration highlights the deepening ties between Japan and India, with Japan viewing India as a crucial partner in promoting a "free and open" Indo-Pacific region, especially as China expands its military presence.

Takaichi's visit, if it proceeds, would be part of a pattern of reciprocal high-level exchanges between the two countries. It also occurs amid strained relations between Japan and China. Takaichi previously drew criticism from Beijing for remarks suggesting Japan might deploy defense forces to aid the U.S. if Taiwan were attacked by mainland China.

While India has its own territorial disputes with China, it has recently sought to mend its relationship with Beijing, influenced by strong economic ties and U.S. trade policies. Other potential discussion points for Takaichi and Modi include de-escalating Middle East tensions and the Quad cooperative framework, which includes Japan, India, the United States, and Australia.