India and Japan Strengthen Strategic Partnership in 2026

India and Japan are reinforcing their strategic partnership, particularly in the field of technology and trade. Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s recent visit to New Delhi underscored this commitment. Takaichi's tenure, influenced by her mentor Shinzo Abe, aims to restore momentum in bilateral relations that have developed significantly over the past two decades.

This partnership is framed as one of India’s most substantive alliances, with a shared understanding of neighbourhood dynamics reinforcing their relationship. The engagement trajectory has been shaped by notable contributions from Indian and Japanese leaders, with past Prime Ministers responsible for laying the groundwork.

However, the relationship exhibits contrasting characteristics when compared to India’s ties with the United States. While the governmental connections between India and Japan are strong, business and people-to-people interactions remain relatively weak. A notable observation was made by a Japanese scholar who highlighted the imbalance between the robust government-level exchanges and the lack of extensive business and cultural interactions between the two nations.

The visit comes at a time when there are growing concerns related to anti-immigrant sentiment in Japan, which has been affecting how Indian tourists are received. Reports indicate rising instances where Indian visitors have faced difficulties in gaining acceptance in social venues, indicating a broader trend of discomfort among certain sections of Japanese society.

In the realm of business, Japanese companies are still more inclined to invest in China and Southeast Asia, despite recent increases in foreign direct investment in India. An Indian entrepreneur based in Tokyo noted the complexities that Japanese firms encounter in navigating the Indian market, contrasting it with the relative ease of conducting business in China.

Despite these challenges, there remains hope that increasing government-to-government interactions will foster improvements in business and interpersonal relations. The joint statement released following the Takaichi-Modi meeting laid out a comprehensive agenda, aiming to build upon foundations set by earlier exchanges between leaders of both nations.

One striking remark made by Takaichi recalls a sentiment expressed by her predecessor, highlighting that a robust India aligns with Japan’s interests. This reflects a strategic vision for both nations, seeking to harmonise their diplomatic and commercial efforts as they navigate the complexities of regional and global politics.