India, Japan sign pacts on AI, metals, and energy after Modi-Takaichi talks

NEW DELHI: India and Japan signed pacts on Thursday to boost their cooperation in artificial intelligence, metals, energy, and prepared a joint roadmap for economic security, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said after talks with his Japanese counterpart Sanae Takaichi.

Takaichi is on a three-day visit to New Delhi as the two Asian partners hold their 16th annual summit.

“The convergence of Japan’s precision technology and India’s software capabilities will give a new momentum and strength to global AI development,” Modi told reporters.

Bilateral trade between the two countries reached US$27.5 billion in fiscal year 2025/26, while Japanese investment in India was US$3.2 billion between April and December 2025, according to Indian government data.

Modi said that the two countries, also members of the Quad grouping, signed an agreement on their first co-development project in the defence sector.

“Through the India-Japan bio-gas Initiative, we will set up 1,000 bio-gas and organic fertilizer plants in India,” he added.

Japan is among India’s largest investors, backing major infrastructure projects including a high-speed rail corridor between the cities of Mumbai and Ahmedabad.

Japanese firms have also increased investments in Indian companies, including a recent US$1.6 billion deal for a 20% stake in Yes Bank.

Takaichi is accompanied by a large business delegation and is due to speak at a business conference later on Thursday.