Japan Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi Meets PM Modi, Discusses Defence Cooperation

New Delhi, August 20, 2026: Japan’s Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi, who is on an official visit to India, met Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday to discuss strengthening bilateral defence and security cooperation between the two countries.

During the meeting, Prime Minister Modi recalled his discussions with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi during her visit to India for the 16th India-Japan Annual Summit in July 2026. He welcomed the continued momentum in defence cooperation between India and Japan.

PM Modi highlighted the importance of the India-Japan defence and security partnership in promoting peace, stability and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific and beyond. He also emphasised the opportunities for Japanese companies and Indian businesses to work together in the defence sector.

The Prime Minister particularly highlighted the scope for Japanese companies to partner with Indian companies and start-ups in defence co-development and co-production under the Make in India initiative.

Defence Minister Koizumi briefed PM Modi on the progress of bilateral defence cooperation and reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to further strengthening its defence ties with India.

The meeting reflects the continued efforts by India and Japan to deepen their Special Strategic and Global Partnership, with defence cooperation remaining an important area of bilateral engagement.