AI, defence, healthcare: What was discussed in Modi's meet with Japan PM Sanae Takaichi

India and Japan have deepened their strategic partnership with the signing of multiple agreements covering artificial intelligence (AI), defence, healthcare, economic security and clean energy during talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Japanese counterpart, Sanae Takaichi, in New Delhi.

The meeting, held as part of the 16th India-Japan Annual Summit, underscored the growing convergence between Asia's second- and third-largest economies on technology, supply-chain resilience and regional security. Both leaders also reaffirmed their commitment to a free, open and rules-based Indo-Pacific.

AI and emerging technologies

Artificial intelligence emerged as one of the summit's central themes.

India and Japan issued a Joint Statement on Cooperation in the Field of Artificial Intelligence, with Prime Minister Modi describing technology as the future cornerstone of bilateral ties. The agreement seeks to combine Japan's expertise in precision engineering with India's software and digital capabilities to advance AI innovation.

The partnership will also promote collaboration between research institutions, startups and industries working in AI, semiconductors and other critical technologies.

Defence cooperation

The two countries announced their first defence co-development project, centred on the Naval Radio Antenna "Unicorn" system.

According to Modi, the project will open a new chapter in bilateral defence ties by enabling the joint development of defence technologies aimed at strengthening maritime security, regional peace and the rules-based international order.

The leaders also agreed to expand cooperation in defence technology and security amid increasing strategic challenges in the Indo-Pacific region.

Healthcare partnership

Healthcare was another major area of focus.

India and Japan signed agreements to expand collaboration in:

• Pharmaceuticals

• Medical devices

• Biotechnology

• Global health security

Modi said the partnership would combine India's manufacturing capabilities with Japan's technological expertise to deliver affordable and advanced healthcare solutions globally.

Economic security and clean energy

The two leaders adopted a Joint Declaration on Economic Security, aimed at strengthening resilient supply chains and reducing vulnerabilities in critical sectors.

They also signed a Joint Statement on Energy Resilience, agreeing to work together on:

• Clean energy initiatives

• Critical minerals

• Battery technologies

• Geological exploration

• Bio-gas and organic fertiliser projects

India plans to establish 1,000 bio-gas and organic fertiliser plants with Japanese cooperation, a move expected to support rural livelihoods and sustainability.

Trade and investment

Economic ties featured prominently during the summit.

The leaders reaffirmed their goal of increasing Japanese investment in India, with Japan expected to contribute over $10 billion in new investments while continuing efforts toward the long-term target of ¥10 trillion (around $61 billion) in investment over the next decade.

Discussions also covered advanced manufacturing, semiconductors, next-generation mobility and expanding the presence of Japanese companies in India.

Strengthening strategic ties

Beyond sector-specific agreements, Modi and Takaichi reviewed cooperation in trade, investment, science and technology, culture and people-to-people exchanges. They also exchanged views on regional and global developments and agreed to celebrate the 75th anniversary of India-Japan diplomatic relations in 2027 with a series of joint activities.

The summit reflects the growing strategic alignment between India and Japan as both countries seek to strengthen economic resilience, technological collaboration and regional security amid an evolving geopolitical landscape.