India-Japan Summit Delivers Landmark Defence, AI Deals

India and Japan elevated their partnership to a new level during the 16th India-Japan Annual Summit , with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi unveiling a series of agreements spanning defence, economic security, artificial intelligence and energy cooperation. The outcomes of the summit signal a shift in bilateral ties from traditional economic engagement to a broader strategic partnership aimed at addressing global uncertainties and strengthening stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

Concluding her first official visit to India from July 1 to 3, Takaichi held extensive talks with Modi at Hyderabad House, where the two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to the India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership . The Ministry of External Affairs described the visit as highly successful, saying the relationship remains a key pillar of peace, prosperity and stability in the Indo-Pacific.

A major outcome was the adoption of a Joint Declaration on Economic Security Cooperation , covering critical sectors such as semiconductors, critical minerals, telecommunications, pharmaceuticals and clean energy . The initiative aims to build resilient supply chains and reduce vulnerabilities arising from global disruptions.

The two countries also announced their first-ever defence co-development project , centred on the advanced UNICORN naval antenna system . The agreement marks a significant expansion of defence-industrial cooperation and reflects growing strategic convergence between New Delhi and Tokyo.

Recognising the importance of emerging technologies, India and Japan launched a Joint Statement on Artificial Intelligence Cooperation and welcomed the inaugural India-Japan AI Strategic Dialogue . The partnership seeks to combine Japan's manufacturing expertise with India's digital and software strengths.

Energy security emerged as another key focus area. Both sides adopted a Joint Statement on Energy Resilience , agreeing to collaborate on strategic petroleum reserves, green hydrogen, battery technologies and clean energy supply chains. Japan also reiterated support for India's bid to join the International Energy Agency .

The leaders reviewed progress on Japan's commitment to invest 10 trillion yen in India and agreed to modernise the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) to boost trade and investment.

Looking ahead, the two countries announced that 2027 will be celebrated as the "India-Japan Year of Shared Horizons" , marking 75 years of diplomatic relations . The milestone is expected to strengthen cooperation in technology, culture, education, business and regional security, underscoring the growing importance of the India-Japan partnership in shaping the future of the Indo-Pacific.