Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi may hold talks in Assam on July 1 during Takaichi’s first visit to India since assuming office.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Sarma raised the possibility in a social media post on Tuesday, indicating that the meeting could take place in Guwahati, the state’s largest city.
The planned visit would form part of the two countries’ shuttle diplomacy arrangement, under which their leaders make reciprocal trips to strengthen bilateral ties.
Takaichi took office last October and her India trip would mark an early test of her government’s engagement with one of Japan’s key partners in Asia.
Japan has supported infrastructure development in northeastern India through low-interest yen loans, with Assam playing a central role in the region.
The area has historically lagged behind other parts of India in economic growth, making infrastructure assistance a key part of Japan’s development cooperation there.
If the meeting pushes through, the summit would give Japan an opportunity to highlight its role in supporting development projects in India’s northeast.
The possible talks would also allow Takaichi and Modi to review broader cooperation between Tokyo and New Delhi, including economic ties and regional engagement.
