India, Japan will work to strengthen ‘peacetime cooperation’: Jaishankar.

India and Japan would rather work to strengthen their “peacetime cooperation,” said External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, side-stepping a question about how the two countries would cooperate in case of a conflict in the Taiwan straits, or between India and China at the Line of Actual Control.

India-Japan relations have historically been characterized by mutual respect, cultural exchanges, and economic ties.

Over the years, both countries have strengthened their bilateral relationship, forging a strategic partnership that extends beyond economic cooperation to various areas, including defense, technology, and regional security.

Historical Ties:

India and Japan have had cultural and economic interactions dating back centuries. Buddhism, which originated in India, was transmitted to Japan in ancient times and has been a significant cultural link between the two nations.

Economic Cooperation:

Economic ties between India and Japan have grown significantly. Japan has been a major source of foreign direct investment (FDI) in India, contributing to infrastructure development and manufacturing sectors.

Both countries have engaged in trade and investment, and Japan has been actively supporting India's development projects through financial assistance and technical expertise.

Strategic Partnership:

In 2006, India and Japan upgraded their relationship to a "Strategic and Global Partnership."

 This move signified a deeper commitment to cooperate on various regional and global issues, including security, counterterrorism, and maritime cooperation.

Defense and Security Cooperation:

India and Japan have conducted joint military exercises and engaged in defense dialogues to strengthen security cooperation.

The two countries have also signed agreements on defense equipment and technology transfer, further enhancing defense ties.

Quad Cooperation:

India and Japan, along with the United States and Australia, are part of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, commonly known as the Quad.

The Quad aims to promote a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific region and strengthen cooperation on regional security and development.

Infrastructure Development:

Japan has been involved in various infrastructure projects in India, including the development of high-speed rail corridors, industrial corridors, and urban infrastructure.

Cultural Exchanges:

Cultural exchanges between India and Japan have fostered people-to-people ties and promoted mutual understanding.

Events, festivals, and academic exchanges have played a crucial role in promoting cultural relations.

Act East Policy:

India's "Act East Policy" and Japan's "Free and Open Indo-Pacific" vision have converged to a large extent.

Both countries share a common interest in ensuring peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region.

Disaster Management Cooperation:

India and Japan have collaborated on disaster management and relief efforts. In times of natural disasters, Japan has provided humanitarian aid and assistance to India.

Technology and Innovation: Japan and India have collaborated in areas of science, technology, and innovation.

Cooperation in research and development has been aimed at promoting technological advancements in various sectors.