India and Japan have agreed to deepen their cooperation on artificial intelligence and critical minerals as part of their Strategic Partnership. During the 18th India-Japan Strategic Dialogue in New Delhi, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi launched a new AI Dialogue, which will provide a structured platform for both countries to coordinate on AI policy, research, innovation, and ethical frameworks. This initiative is intended to strengthen bilateral engagement in cutting-edge technology and help both governments align their approaches to AI governance and development.
In addition to AI cooperation, the two nations also decided to convene a Joint Working Group on Critical Minerals, aimed at enhancing collaboration on rare earth elements and other strategic minerals that are essential for high-tech industries. This working group will focus on building resilient supply chains, exploring sustainable sources, and aligning strategic frameworks under their economic security initiative. These steps reflect a broader effort to reduce vulnerabilities in global supply chains and promote economic security in an era where AI and critical technologies are key drivers of growth.
Leaders also agreed to enhance public-private cooperation through a dedicated private-sector dialogue under the economic security framework, linking government strategy with industry action. Discussions between the ministers covered a wide range of topics, including trade, investment, supply-chain resilience, defence cooperation, and people-to-people exchanges, underscoring the multifaceted nature of the India-Japan partnership. The second round of the Economic Security Dialogue, led by senior officials from both sides, is planned for the first half of 2026 to build momentum on these fronts.
Overall, the launch of the AI Dialogue and the Joint Working Group on Critical Minerals signals a significant step in strengthening strategic cooperation between India and Japan in areas that support technology leadership, economic resilience, and global supply chain security.
