Modi in Tokyo: Japan Visit to Push Deals on AI, Semiconductors and Bullet Train Project

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached Tokyo on Friday to begin his two-day official visit to Japan, where he will hold high-level talks with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and attend the 15th India-Japan Annual Summit. This marks Modi’s eighth trip to Japan, underscoring the growing importance of the partnership between the two Asian democracies.

Upon landing in Tokyo, PM Modi shared his thoughts on social media, stating: “Landed in Tokyo. As India and Japan continue to strengthen their developmental cooperation, I look forward to engaging with PM Ishiba and others during this visit, thus providing an opportunity to deepen existing partnerships and explore new avenues of collaboration.”

Big Investment Push Expected

According to Japan’s Kyodo News, Tokyo is preparing to unveil an ambitious investment target of 10 trillion yen (approximately USD 68 billion) for India. The announcement, expected during Modi’s stay, is aimed at accelerating economic engagement and boosting Japanese business presence in India. Both leaders are also scheduled to address a joint press conference highlighting these developments.

Focus Areas: Semiconductors, AI & Emerging Tech

Beyond trade and investment, the two prime ministers are likely to finalize a new framework on economic security, while also exploring joint efforts in semiconductor manufacturing, artificial intelligence, and advanced technology cooperation. PM Modi is also set to visit Sendai to tour a semiconductor facility—an event that officials say will showcase the “futuristic dimension of India-Japan collaboration.”

Looking Ahead: SCO Summit in China

After wrapping up his engagements in Japan, PM Modi will travel to Tianjin, China (August 31–September 1), to participate in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit. There, he will join Chinese President Xi Jinping, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and other world leaders. Ahead of his departure, Modi emphasized India’s constructive role in the SCO: “India will keep working with SCO members to address various shared challenges.”

In a message posted before his journey, the Prime Minister noted: “Over the next few days, will be in Japan and China to attend various bilateral and multilateral programmes. In Japan, will take part in the 15th Annual India-Japan Summit and hold talks with PM Shigeru Ishiba.”

Strengthening a “Special Partnership”

Calling the India-Japan relationship a “special strategic and global partnership,” Modi highlighted that his visit is intended to deepen economic, political, and cultural linkages. Analysts view this visit as pivotal, particularly given the timing—when both nations are seeking stronger ties to navigate regional security concerns and rapidly changing global supply chains.