Strengthening Bonds: PM Modi’s Symbolic and Strategic Visit to Japan

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Japan highlighted the deepening India-Japan partnership. His symbolic Shinkansen ride with Japanese PM Shigeru Ishiba reflected mutual respect and camaraderie. The visit focused on enhancing ties in defense, technology, and economic cooperation, with Modi inviting Japanese businesses to "Make in India." A key moment was touring a semiconductor facility in Miyagi Prefecture, signaling a strategic commitment to technological collaboration. Modi’s five-point roadmap emphasized manufacturing, green energy, infrastructure, and skill development, reinforcing a historically strong bilateral relationship.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Japan marked a significant step in strengthening the long-standing and multifaceted relationship between the two nations. The two-day visit combined gestures of warmth and camaraderie with discussions on critical areas of cooperation, showcasing the evolving partnership between India and Japan.

A Journey of Friendship on the Shinkansen

A highlight of the visit was PM Modi’s symbolic ride aboard Japan’s iconic Shinkansen bullet train with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba. The two leaders traveled together to Sendai, with Ishiba personally accompanying Modi throughout the journey. Ishiba later shared on social media: “With Prime Minister Modi to Sendai. Continuing from last night, I will be with you in the car.”

This gesture underscored the spirit of mutual respect and friendship that has characterized India-Japan relations for decades. The journey was not just symbolic but also a reflection of the shared vision of the two nations for technological advancement and connectivity.

Collaboration Across Sectors

Earlier during his visit, Modi met with Indian train drivers undergoing training at JR East, Japan’s railway corporation. Ishiba described the moment as a proud symbol of the growing collaboration between the two nations.

Beyond these symbolic engagements, the leaders held wide-ranging discussions covering defense, economic cooperation, and technological innovation. Ishiba noted, “We discussed cooperation across a wide range of areas, including defense and the economy. Tomorrow, I will join you for the inspection of the Shinkansen and semiconductor-related matters.”

Focus on Semiconductors: A Strategic Priority

A central aspect of Modi’s visit was his inspection of a cutting-edge semiconductor facility in Miyagi Prefecture. Operated by the Japan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (JSMC), a joint venture between Taiwan’s Powerchip Semiconductor Manufacturing Corporation, SBI Holdings, and Japanese partners, the facility represents Japan’s ambitious efforts to revive its domestic chip-making industry.

Located in Ohira Village, the plant is set to manufacture advanced 12-inch semiconductor wafers, focusing on 40-nanometer technology, with plans to expand to 28 nm and 55 nm nodes. These semiconductors are pivotal for automotive electronics, a sector witnessing rapid growth due to the global shift toward electric vehicles and next-generation mobility.

Once fully operational, the facility aims to produce 40,000 wafers per month, significantly bolstering Japan’s semiconductor supply chain while providing new opportunities for India-Japan technological partnerships.

Inviting Japanese Investment: "Come, Make in India"

During the India-Japan Joint Economic Forum in Tokyo, PM Modi extended an invitation to Japanese businesses to invest in India. Emphasizing the synergy between the two nations, he urged companies to “Come, make in India, make for the world.” Citing the success stories of Japanese companies like Suzuki and Daikin in India, Modi highlighted the potential for similar ventures to thrive.

Modi outlined a five-point roadmap to elevate India-Japan ties:

1. Manufacturing and New Industries: Expanding collaboration in robotics, semiconductors, shipbuilding, and nuclear energy, with a focus on supporting the Global South, including Africa.

2. Technology and Innovation: Leveraging Japan’s technological expertise and India’s talent to lead advancements in AI, quantum computing, and biotechnology.

3. Green Energy Transition: Partnering on renewable energy projects, including solar and green hydrogen, to achieve sustainability goals.

4. Next-Generation Infrastructure: Enhancing metro, road, and rail development with Japan’s support.

5. Skill Development: Encouraging Japanese language training for Indian youth to enhance workforce integration and collaboration.

   
   

A Relationship Built on History

India and Japan share a rich history of cooperation that dates back centuries. Buddhism, originating in India, made its way to Japan in the 6th century, laying the foundation for cultural ties. Post-World War II, India gifted an elephant to Tokyo’s Ueno Zoo in 1949, symbolizing goodwill during Japan’s recovery.

Diplomatic relations were formalized in 1952 with a peace treaty, and since then, the partnership has grown steadily. Highlights include the 2000 “Global Partnership” agreement, the 2006 “Global and Strategic Partnership,” and the 2014 “Special Strategic and Global Partnership.”

Modi’s Personal Ties with Japan

PM Modi’s connection with Japan dates back to 2007 when, as Chief Minister of Gujarat, he led a delegation to key Japanese cities. His meetings with Japanese business leaders laid the groundwork for future collaborations. Modi’s close relationship with former Japanese PM Shinzo Abe further solidified ties, with Abe famously hosting Modi at his private holiday home in 2018.

PM Modi’s visit to Japan reinforced the shared goals of India and Japan in shaping global progress. From fostering technological innovation to enhancing economic ties, the partnership is set to play a pivotal role in addressing the challenges of the 21st century.

As the two nations continue to collaborate across sectors, their relationship remains a beacon of mutual respect and shared aspirations, poised to contribute significantly to global peace and prosperity.