Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed his Japanese counterpart ahead of the 16th India-Japan Annual Summit, where both leaders will review bilateral cooperation and discuss key regional and global issues.

Takaichi arrived in New Delhi on Wednesday evening for her first official visit to India since taking office.

Minister of State for Science and Technology Dr Jitendra Singh received her at the airport, while the Ministry of External Affairs described the visit as another milestone in strengthening the India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership.

During the summit, the two leaders will focus on expanding cooperation in strategic, economic, technological and security sectors while reaffirming their commitment to a free, open and prosperous Indo-Pacific.

Before leaving Tokyo, Takaichi outlined three priorities for her talks with Prime Minister Modi: strengthening the strategic partnership, enhancing economic security cooperation, and boosting investment and innovation through stronger business ties. She also announced that the Japan-India Joint Economic Forum, with participation from more than 150 Japanese companies and business organisations, will take place during her visit to promote trade and investment.

Takaichi reaffirmed that India and Japan share responsibility for maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific. She said the summit would strengthen FOIP and Quad cooperation while deepening mutual trust.

Takaichi will also attend a business forum to promote trade and investment.

The visit highlights growing India-Japan cooperation in trade, technology and regional security.