Seventy Years of India-Japan Diplomatic Relations: Reflections and Way Forward

Spanning seven decades, the diplomatic relations between India and Japan present a narrative of mutual respect, strategic alignment, and cooperation. This relationship has evolved from strong cultural and civilizational linkages to a global partnership and has led to significant developments in defence and security, economic modernization, infrastructure projects and regional cooperation in the Indo-Pacific.

Based on a conference organized by the Indian Council of World Affairs (ICWA) on May 19, 2022, this book discusses the nature of India-Japan relationship and presents a comprehensive account of the diplomatic ties between the two nations. Attended by renowned scholars and policymakers, the conference marked the 70th anniversary of India-Japan relations and provided a fertile ground for insightful reflections, which have been collated in this book. It serves as a testament to the resilient relationship and an inspiring guide for the path ahead.

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Nutan Kapoor Mahawar is Joint Secretary in the Indian Council of World Affairs, New Delhi, India. She joined the Indian Foreign Service (IFS) in 1996. During her over 26 years of service, she has worked on various assignments both in New Delhi and abroad. At Headquarters, she has served in the Disarmament & International Security Affairs, Europe West and Parliament & Coordination Divisions.

Jojin V. John is Assistant Professor at the School of International Relations and Politics, Mahatma Gandhi University, Kerala, India. His research interest includes International Relations in East Asia, India’s East Asian engagement and geopolitical developments in the Indo-Pacific. Previously Dr. Jojin worked with the Indian Council of World Affairs (ICWA) as a Research Fellow for East Asia.