PM Modi’s Address at India-Japan Economic Forum:World Is Not Just Watching India, It’s Counting on India”: PM Modi’s Call to Japan.
Introduction
On August 29, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the India-Japan Economic Forum in Tokyo, delivering a compelling narrative on India’s growing global influence and investment potential. His appeal to Japanese business leaders underscored reform, stability, and the transformative synergy between India’s scale and Japan’s technological excellence.
Key Highlights from the Address
India as a Global Anchor: Modi asserted that “the world is not just watching India but counting on India,” signaling India’s rising geopolitical and economic significance.
“Make in India, Make for the World”: Invoking India’s manufacturing potential, he invited Japanese companies to establish operations in India for global outreach.
Synergy of Strengths: He highlighted a powerful pairing — “Japan’s technology and India’s talent” — positioning the two nations to potentially lead the 21st-century tech revolution.
Strategic Focus Areas: Modi outlined five pillars for cooperation: manufacturing, technology & innovation, green energy transition, next-generation infrastructure, and skill development.
Sectoral Expansion: He announced that India is opening up the nuclear energy sector to private players, following similar moves in defence and space.
Favorable Business Climate: Emphasizing political and economic stability, policy clarity, and growth momentum, Modi reiterated that India is fastest-growing and on path to become the third-largest economy.
Strategic and Geopolitical Context
Massive Japanese Investment: This visit is expected to yield over ¥10 trillion (≈ $68 billion) in Japanese investment pledges across sectors like trade, defence, technology, and science.
Infrastructure Progress: Discussions included accelerating the E10 Shinkansen high-speed project, regional cooperation in semiconductors, AI, and critical minerals.
Quad & Regional Diplomacy: Strengthening ties within the QUAD and bolstering the India-Japan “Special Strategic & Global Partnership” were key to fostering Indo-Pacific stability.
Significance for UPSC Aspirants
Polity & Governance (GS Paper II): Illustrates diplomatic engagement and international partnerships.
Economy & Infrastructure (GS Paper III): Relevant themes include foreign direct investment, infrastructure financing, and strategic sector development.
International Relations: Demonstrates India’s pursuit of balancing global alliances and strengthening regional leadership.