Fri Oct 24 17:59:03 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the provided text, followed by a rewritten news article suitable for publication, perhaps under a “The View From India” column:

Summary:

Newly appointed Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi outlined her agenda in a speech to the Diet, emphasizing increased defense spending (reaching 2% of GDP by March 2026), continued commitment to partnerships like the Quad, and addressing Japan’s economic challenges, particularly inflation. She reaffirmed Japan’s strategic partnership with India, recognizing its leadership in the Global South and its importance in a Free and Open Indo-Pacific. While acknowledging the need for foreign workers to address Japan’s declining population, she also suggested controls on foreign nationals. Several members of her cabinet have prior experience working with India, indicating a continued focus on the relationship.
* Key Points:
* Defence budget to be 2% of GDP by March 2026
* PM Takaichi recommits to QUAD & Indo-Pacific strategy
* Acknowledges the unique position of India in Global South.
* Aims for “well-ordered” co-existence with foreign nationals.
* Strong ties anticipated, several cabinet members are familiar with India.

News Article:

Japan’s New PM Prioritizes Defense, Reaffirms Indo-Pacific Strategy Amidst Global Shifts

TOKYO, October 24, 2025 – In her inaugural policy speech to the Japanese Diet, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi unveiled an ambitious agenda, prioritizing a significant boost to defense spending and a continued focus on strategic partnerships, particularly with India, to navigate an increasingly complex global landscape.

Just days after assuming office, Takaichi announced that Japan would accelerate its defense spending plans, aiming to reach 2% of GDP by March 2026, well ahead of the previously stated 2027 target. She explicitly cited concerns about Russia, China, and North Korea as driving forces behind this increased commitment to national security. She pledged support for “security partnerships” like the Quad, which includes India.

Addressing concerns about Japan’s aging population and declining workforce, Takaichi hinted at tighter controls on foreign nationals, sparking debate. However, in an exclusive interview with The Hindu, Assistant Minister Toshihiro Kitamura clarified that the Prime Minister is not anti-immigrant. He emphasized the need for a foreign workforce and that Takaichi has appointed a minister specifically focused on “well-ordered” integration.

The India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership was a prominent theme. Takaichi responded to Prime Minister Modi’s congratulatory message, expressing her eagerness to further strengthen ties. Kitamura underscored India’s “unique” position as a leader in the Global South and reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to the Indo-Pacific strategy championed by former PM Shinzo Abe. He also highlighted an action plan to increase workforce exchanges, including skilled IT and science workers from India.

“In order to promote the main pillar of the Japanese diplomacy, a Free and Open Indo-Pacific, India is a crucial partner. Prime Minister Takaichi is fully committed to promote further cooperation with India,” Mr. Kitamura said.

Significantly, Takaichi’s cabinet includes several individuals with prior experience fostering relations with India. Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi and Internal Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi, both held ministerial positions in previous administrations with engagement with India. The appointment of Shinjiro Koizumi, son of former PM Junichiro Koizumi who played a pivotal role in resetting India-Japan ties in 2005, as Defence Minister further signals the importance Japan places on the relationship.
U.S. President Donald Trump is scheduled to visit Japan beginning October 27.
The Prime Minister’s address underscores Japan’s commitment to playing a more assertive role on the global stage and further strengthening its strategic alliance with India.

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