PM Modi in Japan Seeks Stronger Economic Ties, Invites Investment in Nuclear Sector

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday addressed the India-Japan Economic Forum in Tokyo, marking his first standalone visit to Japan in nearly seven years. Against the backdrop of global trade tensions and steep U.S. tariffs on Indian goods, Modi pitched India as a resilient and attractive investment hub, urging Japanese businesses to deepen their footprint.

“Build in India, sell to the world,” Modi declared, stressing that capital invested in India “does not just grow, it multiplies.” He highlighted political stability, transparent governance, low inflation, competitive interest rates, and $700 billion in forex reserves as proof of India’s economic strength. He also noted that India remains the world’s fastest-growing major economy and is set to emerge as the third largest economy in the near future.

A major highlight of his address was the announcement of opening India’s nuclear energy sector to private investment, signaling a fresh wave of liberalisation after reforms in defence and space. Modi positioned this as an opportunity for Japan and India to forge new high-tech collaborations.

He underscored the “tech–talent synergy” between the two countries, arguing that Japan’s advanced technology and India’s skilled workforce could together drive breakthroughs in green energy, robotics, semiconductors, batteries, quantum computing, biotech, and space exploration.

The pitch comes as India looks to diversify economic partnerships amid strained ties with Washington following Trump’s tariff hikes. Japan, already a key partner in India’s infrastructure and manufacturing initiatives, is seen as central to New Delhi’s plan to safeguard growth and reduce external vulnerabilities.

Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba welcomed Modi’s message, calling the partnership between the two nations “perfect” and emphasizing that their complementary strengths could reshape Asia’s future. The two leaders are expected to hold high-level discussions on trade, defence, and technology cooperation during Modi’s two-day visit.

The trip is also aimed at elevating the India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership into a more transformative framework, with both sides keen to position themselves as anchors of stability and innovation in the Indo-Pacific region.