What Role Will India and Japan Play in Ensuring Peace in the Indo-Pacific?
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Synopsis
In a recent meeting at the ASEAN Summit, Japan's Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi underscored the pivotal role of India and Japan in maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific. With a focus on strong bilateral ties and shared strategic interests, this partnership could redefine international relations in the region.
Key Takeaways
- Japan and India are key players in ensuring peace in the Indo-Pacific.
- The ASEAN Summit facilitates important diplomatic discussions.
- Enhanced bilateral ties focus on security, economy, and cultural exchanges.
- Both nations emphasize a strategic partnership for regional stability.
- Historical context strengthens their collaborative efforts.
Kuala Lumpur, Oct 27 (NationPress) Emphasizing the shared fundamental values and strategic interests between the two nations, Japan's newly appointed Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi asserted on Monday that Japan and India play a vital role in achieving peace and stability within the Indo-Pacific region and for the international community at large.
During a meeting with External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar on the sidelines of the ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Motegi highlighted the increasingly severe international situation and security environment that both countries face, calling for enhanced cooperation between Japan and India.
Motegi expressed his optimism about fulfilling this collaborative role alongside Minister Jaishankar, particularly through the Japan-US-Australia-India relations, as noted in a statement from Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The statement further emphasized that during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Japan in August, the leaders showcased the robust and strategic Japan-India relationship, setting the course for cooperation over the next decade. Motegi hopes to achieve significant outcomes across three key areas: security, economy/investment/innovation, and people-to-people exchanges.
Both ministers discussed strengthening bilateral ties and agreed to closely collaborate on the joint vision for the next decade of India-Japan cooperation.
In response, Minister Jaishankar expressed pleasure at Motegi's return as Foreign Minister, aligning with his views on the unique and long-standing partnership between Japan and India, and their shared commitment to regional stability.
They also shared insights on regional situations.
“It was a pleasure to meet FM Motegi Toshimitsu of Japan. We engaged in extensive discussions about our bilateral ties and agreed to work together on our vision for the next decade of cooperation. We also exchanged views on the global context and our Indo-Pacific collaboration, highlighting the strength and warmth of our Special Strategic and Global Partnership,” EAM Jaishankar posted on X following the meeting.
Motegi previously served as Japan's Minister for Foreign Affairs from September 2019 to October 2021.
On October 21, EAM Jaishankar congratulated Motegi on his recent appointment and expressed eagerness to collaborate on advancing the Special Strategic and Global Partnership between the two nations.
“Congratulations to my friend Motegi Toshimitsu on becoming Japan's Foreign Minister. I look forward to our partnership in strengthening our Special Strategic and Global Partnership,” EAM Jaishankar shared on X.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also congratulated Sanae Takaichi on her election as Prime Minister of Japan, emphasizing the importance of reinforcing the strategic partnership between India and Japan.
In a post on X, PM Modi stated, “Heartfelt congratulations, Sanae Takaichi, on your election as Japan's Prime Minister. I look forward to collaborating closely to bolster the India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership. Our growing ties are essential for peace, stability, and prosperity across the Indo-Pacific and beyond.”
In response to PM Modi's wishes, Japanese PM Sanae Takaichi reaffirmed her commitment to working with him to enhance the Special Strategic and Global Partnership.
“Thank you very much H.E. Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India, for your warm congratulations on my selection as Prime Minister. I look forward to promoting the Japan-India Special Strategic and Global Partnership together,” Takaichi posted on X.
According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), India-Japan relations were elevated to a ‘Global Partnership’ in 2000, then to a ‘Strategic and Global Partnership’ in 2006, and finally to a ‘Special Strategic and Global Partnership’ in 2014. The Defence and Security partnership is a fundamental aspect of India-Japan bilateral relations, which have strengthened in recent years due to shared perspectives on issues concerning peace, security, and stability in the Indo-Pacific Region.
Point of View
It's pivotal to note that the cooperation between India and Japan is not just beneficial for their bilateral relationship, but also essential for regional stability. Their commitment to a strategic partnership reflects a proactive approach to the growing complexities in the Indo-Pacific. This collaboration could serve as a cornerstone for a peaceful international order.
NationPress
28/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the main agenda of the meeting between Japan's Foreign Minister and India's External Affairs Minister?
The primary agenda was to discuss enhancing bilateral ties and cooperation between Japan and India, particularly in terms of security, economy, and people-to-people exchanges.
How do Japan and India plan to collaborate in the Indo-Pacific region?
Both nations aim to work closely through their strategic partnership, focusing on security cooperation and joint initiatives involving the US and Australia.
What historical context underlines India-Japan relations?
India and Japan have progressively elevated their relationship over the years, achieving 'Global Partnership' in 2000, 'Strategic and Global Partnership' in 2006, and 'Special Strategic and Global Partnership' in 2014.
What role do defense and security play in India-Japan relations?
Defense and security form a crucial pillar of India-Japan ties, with recent years seeing strengthened exchanges due to shared perspectives on regional peace and stability.
How significant is the ASEAN Summit for India-Japan relations?
The ASEAN Summit serves as a vital platform for both nations to engage on pressing regional issues, reaffirming their commitment to collaboration and strategic partnerships.
