New Delhi, Jan 16 (NationPress) Celebrating the enduring partnership between India and Japan, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasized on Friday that New Delhi places the utmost importance on collaborating with Tokyo in global platforms such as the Quad, the United Nations, and the G20.

In his introductory remarks during the 18th India-Japan Strategic Dialogue with Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi in New Delhi, EAM Jaishankar observed that the relationship between the two countries has evolved from a primarily economic one to a relationship that is “broad, comprehensive, and strategic.”

“As I extend my welcome today, I want to emphasize that India holds its friendship with Japan in high regard. Over the last twenty years, our relationship has successfully transitioned from a focus on economics to one that encompasses a broader, more comprehensive, and strategic approach. We prioritize our collaboration with Japan in international arenas, with the Quad, the United Nations, our G4 membership, and the G20 being immediate examples,” EAM Jaishankar remarked.

“Reflecting on our partnership, it's significant to remember that a Japanese Prime Minister once addressed the Indian Parliament, paving the way for the Indo-Pacific to emerge as a political, economic, and strategic concept. Much time has passed, but today our initiative, referred to as Mahasagar, aligns closely with your vision of a Free and Open Indo-Pacific,” he continued.

EAM Jaishankar highlighted the necessity for India and Japan to collaborate closely toward shared strategic objectives amid today's unpredictable global landscape. He warmly welcomed Toshimitsu Motegi and reminisced about their previous discussions.

“As leading democracies and major global economies, we have not only an opportunity but a responsibility to influence the global order. In these uncertain times, it is even more crucial for us to cooperate toward our mutual strategic aims,” he stated.

EAM Jaishankar noted that India and Japan will commemorate the 75th anniversary of their diplomatic relations in 2027, affirming that their special, strategic, and global partnership is on a steadily upward trajectory.

He added, “In our bilateral talks today, I aim to cover key priorities in our relationship, some of which were already discussed during your meeting with the Prime Minister. Your recent visits to the Philippines, Qatar, Israel, and Palestine exemplify our convergence in the Indo-Pacific, highlighting our common interests in regions such as West Asia and the Middle East. This also emphasizes our shared energy interests, so there is much for us to deliberate upon.”