India and Japan have agreed to expand cooperation across defence, artificial intelligence (AI), semiconductors, economic security, healthcare, clean energy and emerging technologies, further strengthening their Special Strategic and Global Partnership. Several agreements were signed during the 16th India-Japan Annual Summit held in New Delhi with the objective of advancing bilateral relations and reinforcing strategic cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi held bilateral talks on issues related to shared interests, economic partnership and regional security. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to a rules-based international order, a free and inclusive Indo-Pacific, and ber global supply chains.
During the summit, Japan announced a target of investing 10 trillion yen in India over the next 10 years. The investment will be directed towards manufacturing, infrastructure, advanced technology, digital innovation and industrial development. The two countries also set a target of doubling the number of Japanese companies operating in India in the coming years to promote investment, employment generation and technological cooperation.
The two countries also agreed to strengthen defence cooperation and reached an agreement on their first joint defence technology development programme. Under the initiative, India and Japan will jointly develop the UNICORN naval radio antenna system for naval applications. The communication system is intended to enhance the communication capabilities of naval warships while strengthening electronic surveillance and protection against enemy detection.
India and Japan announced expanded cooperation in artificial intelligence and digital technologies. IIT Bombay, BharatGen Technology Foundation and Japan's National Institute of Informatics will jointly work on developing large language models (LLMs).
India-based Sarvam AI and Japan's Preferred Networks will also collaborate on advanced AI technology development and research. The partnership aims to develop globally competitive AI solutions and accelerate technological innovation.
As part of their focus on human resource development, the two countries agreed to provide research, training and employment opportunities in Japan to 500 Indian AI specialists by 2030. The initiative is intended to promote the exchange of technical expertise and support the development of a skilled workforce for the digital economy.
India and Japan also agreed to expand cooperation in the healthcare sector. The two countries will undertake joint projects in pharmaceuticals, medical devices, biotechnology and health research. The partnership seeks to combine India's manufacturing capacity with Japan's advanced technology and quality standards to develop affordable and modern healthcare solutions for global markets.
The two countries also announced the India-Japan Biogas Initiative to promote clean energy and sustainable development. Under the programme, around 1,000 biogas and bio-fertiliser plants will be established in India to support the rural economy, improve the utilisation of agricultural waste and promote clean energy production.
