PM Narendra Modi and Japanese PM Fumio Kishida Discuss Bilateral Ties at G20 Summit

PM Narendra Modi and Japanese PM Fumio Kishida Discuss Bilateral Ties at G20 Summit. Image/ANI

Strengthening Bilateral Relations

Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in a bilateral meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on the sidelines of the G20 summit, which is being hosted under India’s presidency this year. The meeting took place at the G20 summit venue, Bharat Mandapam in Pragati Maidan, underscoring the significance of the gathering of world leaders.

Japan’s Proactive Global Role

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s visit to India for the G20 Leaders’ Summit is aimed at showcasing Japan’s commitment to actively contribute to various global issues. This approach is based on the outcomes of the G7 summit held in Hiroshima in May, where Japan played a pivotal role. Japanese media has reported that the agenda for discussions in India includes addressing global food security issues, which have been exacerbated by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, along with topics related to development and digital transformation.

Historical and Deepening Ties

The meeting between PM Modi and PM Kishida in Hiroshima earlier this year at the G7 Summit marked a continuation of the growing cooperation between India and Japan. The historical links between the two nations can be traced back to the 6th century when Buddhism was introduced in Japan from India. In recent times, both countries have faced the challenges posed by China’s assertiveness in the Asian region, leading to the strengthening of political ties.

Security Partnerships and Collaborations

India and Japan have developed various frameworks of security partnerships, including the ‘2+2’ Dialogue involving their Foreign and Defence ministers. Joint military exercises, such as the Malabar Exercise, are routine, and they have multiple partnership agreements, encompassing areas from defense equipment trade to military logistics. Japan is one of India’s top five foreign investors, with its private sector investments in India steadily growing.

Fostering a Free and Open Indo-Pacific

Both nations are committed to fostering a free, open, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region. Their collaborative efforts demonstrate the strength and potential of their ever-deepening relationship, which has significant regional and global implications.

India’s G20 Presidency

This G20 Summit marks a historic moment as it is the first time it is taking place under India’s presidency. The G20 was established in 1999 to uphold global financial stability by including middle-income countries in the discussions. India took over the G20 presidency on December 1, 2022, and throughout the year, about 200 meetings related to the G20 were held in 60 cities across the country. The 18th G20 Summit in New Delhi serves as the culmination of these extensive preparations and discussions among ministers, senior officials, and civil societies.

G20 Leaders’ Declaration

The G20 Leaders’ Summit will conclude with the adoption of a declaration, reflecting the leaders’ commitment to the priorities discussed and agreed upon during ministerial and working group meetings. This declaration will set the tone for global economic and geopolitical discussions.

Future G20 Presidencies

Brazil is set to assume the G20 presidency in 2024, followed by South Africa in 2025, highlighting the rotating nature of leadership within the group.