The Dynamic Relationship Between India and Japan

India–Japan relations: history, partnership, and future

1. Historical Convergence

• Civilisational links: Buddhism travelled from India to Japan, creating early cultural affinity.
• Support during freedom struggle: Japan aided Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose and the Indian National Army.
• San Francisco Peace Treaty (1951): While the treaty ended WWII for Japan, India refused to sign it, viewing it as restrictive. India signed a separate peace treaty with Japan in 1952, marking the beginning of a genuine post-war friendship.

2. Modern Partnership and Progress

• Economic ties:
  Japan is one of India’s largest investors, contributing to projects like the Delhi–Mumbai Industrial Corridor and the bullet train. Collaboration in energy, digital technology, and smart cities supports India’s development. The Asia–Africa Growth Corridor (AAGC), a joint initiative, develops infrastructure, digital networks, and healthcare in Africa, providing a transparent alternative to China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
• Security cooperation: Both countries conduct regular naval exercises and collaborate in the Indo-Pacific to ensure free sea lanes and uphold a rule-based order.

3. Future Outlook

• Challenges: India’s regulatory bottlenecks and Japan’s ageing population may slow cooperation.
• Opportunities:
  Diversifying supply chains, advancing technology partnerships in AI, robotics, and quantum research, and promoting human-centric global standards to ensure fairness and inclusivity in the Indo-Pacific.

Synopsis

India–Japan relations are rooted in shared history, values, and strategic interests. From India’s refusal to sign the San Francisco Peace Treaty to contemporary initiatives like the Asia–Africa Growth Corridor, the partnership has evolved from solidarity to strategic collaboration. Both nations now act as democratic anchors, shaping an inclusive and stable future for the Indo-Pacific region.