New York, September 29 (Daily Kiran) : Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar addressed a gathering in New York, revealing that Japanese companies are increasingly keen on establishing and expanding their operations in India. This interest spans critical sectors such as semiconductors and advanced manufacturing. The development comes at a time when India and Japan are strengthening their ties in investment and security.
Jaishankar emphasized the importance of investment in the India-Japan economic relationship, noting that it extends beyond mere trade. He pointed out that Japanese firms are recognizing the advantages of diversifying their production locations rather than relying on a single site.
“Our relationship with Japan is heavily focused on investment,” Jaishankar stated. He explained that companies are exploring various options within their supply chains, which is contributing to the growth of investment ties between the two nations.
He highlighted sectors like semiconductors, chemicals, and advanced manufacturing, where Japanese firms are showing significant interest. Jaishankar mentioned that these companies are also considering how to leverage India’s talent and collaborate with local enterprises.
“I can see Japanese companies truly establishing their businesses in India,” he remarked, referring to activities that would be based on the skills available in India and partnerships with Indian firms.
The minister also pointed out that defense and security collaborations between India and Japan are advancing. Both nations, as maritime powers, share interests in the Indo-Pacific region. Their longstanding positive relationship has laid a strong foundation for cooperation in security matters.
Jaishankar noted that Japan has been viewed positively in India for decades, despite various political ideologies. This broad acceptance, along with the geographical proximity and shared challenges, has further strengthened security relations.
He also mentioned the increasing military exercises and collaborative activities between the two countries. Establishing defense trade relations with Japan is not straightforward, making these growing interactions significant.
Jaishankar referenced a recent exercise involving the Japanese Air Force, although he could not recall whether it occurred at the end of last year or the beginning of this year. He acknowledged that such initiatives are crucial from Japan’s perspective.
He indicated that the Quad framework facilitates further cooperation between the two countries. As Japan expands its partnerships with other nations, operating within a pre-established and organized framework will prove beneficial.
In addition to Japan and India, Australia and the United States are also members of the Quad, providing a platform for mutual cooperation among these four nations in the Indo-Pacific region.
Jaishankar stressed that the India-Japan relationship is not limited to governments and companies. He expressed a desire for increased contact and exchange between the people of both countries, encouraging more Indian students to study in Japan. Currently, the number of Indian students in Japan is relatively low, while the demand for learning the Japanese language in India is on the rise.
These remarks were made in response to a question regarding the role of the India-Japan partnership in the Indo-Pacific region. Jaishankar interconnected the economic and security relations of both nations, noting that while companies seek more production options, both governments recognize the importance of collaborating with new partners.
Japan has long been a significant investor in India’s infrastructure and industry. The two countries continue to engage in diplomatic, economic, and security collaborations, particularly through their work within the Quad framework.
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