India and Japan strengthen ties as Modi hosts Takaichi in New Delhi

In early July 2026, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi hosted Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi in New Delhi for a summit that marked a "new chapter" in bilateral relations. The two leaders agreed to strengthen their strategic partnership, with a shared focus on a free and rules-based Indo-Pacific region. They signed a defence pact and unveiled a roadmap for cooperation on energy, technology, and defence, including critical minerals and semiconductors.

Modi described Japan as an "essential part of India's growth," while Takaichi was referred to as a "younger sister" in a gesture of close ties. The summit also included the announcement of a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) covering several areas. The talks concluded with both sides emphasizing their commitment to regional stability and economic collaboration.