The agreement came at a time when the security environment in the Indo-Pacific region is increasingly severe.

At a meeting held on the sidelines of the two-day Group of 20 summit in Johannesburg, South Africa, that ended the same day, Takaichi asked Modi to work together to realize bilateral cooperation in fields including new and important technologies, such as artificial intelligence and semiconductors, and economic security.

The two leaders affirmed that Japan and India will expand cooperation to realize a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

It was the first time for Takaichi, who took office last month, and Modi to meet in person.

Prime Minister Takaichi said Japan intends to “leverage both countries’ strengths to foster innovation and growth in the areas of critical and emerging technologies, such as semiconductors and AI, and to concretise cooperation in the area of economic security," per news agency ANI.

She also conveyed strong support for the AI Summit that India will host in February 2026.

Modi said he would advance cooperation in these areas, including technology, economic security and innovation-led growth.

Indo-Pacific cooperation

Both leaders reaffirmed the importance of their partnership, describing India and Japan as valued partners and trusted friends. They emphasised that strong ties are essential for regional and global peace, prosperity and stability. They also agreed to continue working together for a free and open Indo-Pacific and to remain in regular contact.

Modi, who arrived in Johannesburg on November 22, also attended G20 sessions and held discussions with other world leaders on the sidelines.