By Clint Richards
This first state visit will highlight how closely the two leaders can cooperate on trade and defense deals.
The dates for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Japan have finally been set, after an aborted attempt in early June when he was forced to stay behind to oversee the implementation of his new BJP lead government’s budget. The Ministry of External Affairs announced that Modi will visit from August 31 to September 3, and will meet with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe while there. As my colleague Ankit has pointed out, there is much to be discussed between the two sides. While Modi’s visit has been delayed, he is likely eager to discuss increased trade ties, investment (particularly in energy), and deals to import Japanese military hardware.
Modi has been intent on visiting Japan since taking office, and despite already visiting Nepal, Bhutan, and Brazil first, this will likely be one of the most significant visits of his early administration. Japan recognizes the opportunity presented as well, as Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga said “Through this opportunity, Japan hopes to further strengthen its strategic global partnership with India.” Abe and Modi are expected to hold a summit on September 1, and Suga said bilateral cooperation will be their main focus, particularly in economic affairs, politics, security and personnel exchanges.
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