“India, Japan Begin First Talks on Economic Security and Trade”

On November 27, 2024, the first round of the India-Japan Dialogue on Economic Security, Strategic Trade, and Technology took place in Tokyo. This important meeting focused on enhancing collaboration between the two nations in areas like economic security, supply chain resilience, and the application of emerging technologies. The dialogue was co-chaired by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri from India and Vice Minister Masataka Okano from Japan, and it marked a significant step in strengthening the India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership.

Key Points

First Round of Dialogue

• The India-Japan Dialogue on Economic Security, Strategic Trade, and Technology was held in Tokyo, focusing on enhancing bilateral cooperation in critical sectors.

Focus Areas

• The dialogue covered the protection of economic interests, building resilient supply chains, and strengthening critical infrastructure in identified sectors.

Concrete Outcomes

• Both sides agreed on the need for “closer collaboration” and to bring “concrete results” through holistic engagement in economic security and technological innovation.

Vikram Misri’s Visit

• Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri paid his first official visit to Japan in his current role, underscoring the enduring friendship between India and Japan based on shared values and mutual respect.

Strategic Partnership

• The dialogue reaffirmed the strength of the India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership, covering political, defense, security, economic, and people-to-people ties.

Announcement of Dialogue

• The dialogue was initially announced during the India-Japan 2+2 ministerial meeting held in New Delhi on August 20, 2024.

Stakeholder Participation

• Ministries, departments, and agencies from both India and Japan participated, including officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, and the National Security Secretariat of Japan.

Key Topics Discussed

• Topics included economic security, the resilience of supply chains, collaboration in critical and emerging technologies, and research and application of new technologies.

Talent Exchange and Upskilling

• Both countries explored ways to facilitate talent exchange and upskilling in fields of mutual interest.

High-Speed Rail Project

• A review of the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail (MAHSR) project, a significant bilateral infrastructure initiative, was part of the discussions.

Continued Cooperation

• Discussions also included strengthening partnerships in areas such as space research (JAXA), environmental cooperation, and trade (JETRO, JICA).