Japan and India meet in New Delhi this week to discuss crucial economic security cooperation between the two nations. Around 50 government officials, researchers, and industry experts gathered on Wednesday for discussions hosted by the Observer Research Foundation, a prominent Indian think tank. The meeting focused on building stronger supply chains and reducing dependence on single sources for critical materials.
Key Focus Areas
The dialogue centered on six priority sectors that both countries identified as essential for economic security. These areas represent the foundation of their strategic partnership moving forward.
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… pic.twitter.com/mfBpv1TCQf
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 29, 2025
| Priority Sector | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Semiconductors | Essential for electronics and technology |
| Critical Minerals | Rare earth materials for manufacturing |
| Clean Energy | Renewable energy technologies |
| Telecommunications | ICT infrastructure development |
| Pharmaceuticals | Medical supply security |
| Scientific Cooperation | Joint research initiatives |
Shared Challenges
Both nations face similar economic pressures that make this cooperation vital. First, China’s rare earth export restrictions have affected its manufacturing capabilities. Additionally, the protectionist high tariff policies from the United States create further complications. Therefore, diversifying supply chains has become a national priority for both countries.
Keiichi Ono, Japanese Ambassador to India, emphasized the urgency of this partnership during the meeting. He stated that Japan and India share the same destiny and must work together closely. Moreover, he stressed that deepening private-sector ties remains just as important as government-to-government relations.
Private Sector Involvement
The conference highlighted several ongoing collaborations. For instance, a senior official from NEC’s Indian unit discussed their work with the Indian government on laying undersea cables. These cables play a crucial role in economic security by ensuring reliable communication networks.
Furthermore, representatives from the Japan Science and Technology Agency presented initiatives supporting joint research projects. This cooperation builds on agreements reached during the August 2025 Japan-India summit, where leaders committed to strengthening bilateral cooperation in semiconductors and other strategic fields.
Building on Previous Dialogues
This meeting follows the inaugural India-Japan Dialogue on Economic Security held in Tokyo on November 27, 2024. During that session, Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Japanese Vice Minister Masataka Okano led comprehensive discussions on supply chain resilience.
Subsequently, both nations issued a detailed fact sheet outlining concrete cooperation efforts across all six focus sectors. The current New Delhi conference aims to transform these commitments into actionable plans.
Infrastructure Development
Participants also discussed critical infrastructure projects that enhance economic resilience. Specifically, they examined opportunities in clean energy development, telecommunications expansion, and scientific research facilities. These investments will strengthen both economies while reducing vulnerabilities to external pressures.
The roundtable format allowed experts from various sectors to contribute their perspectives. Consequently, the discussions produced practical recommendations for immediate implementation.
Japan and India meet in New Delhi represents a significant step toward creating a more resilient economic partnership that benefits both nations while promoting regional stability and prosperity.
