Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his heartiest congratulations to Sanae Takaichi on her historic election as Japan’s first female Prime Minister on Tuesday. In a message posted on social media platform X, PM Modi expressed his enthusiasm to work closely with her to strengthen bilateral ties between the two nations.
“Heartiest congratulations, Sanae Takaichi, on your election as the Prime Minister of Japan. I look forward to working closely with you to further strengthen the India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership,” PM Modi stated. He emphasized that the deepening ties between India and Japan are vital for ensuring peace, stability, and prosperity across the Indo-Pacific region and beyond.
Takaichi’s Election Victory
Sanae Takaichi, 64, made history by becoming Japan’s first woman Prime Minister after securing a decisive victory in Parliament. She received 237 votes in the 465-member Lower House, defeating her opponent Yoshihiko Noda of the Constitutional Democratic Party who garnered 149 votes. In the Upper House, she secured 125 votes, just one vote above the simple majority required for victory.
The 64-year-old politician is a member of Japan’s ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and represents her home prefecture of Nara. She succeeded Shigeru Ishiba, who resigned following major losses in midterm elections.
India-Japan Partnership Strengthened
Takaichi, a protege of the late Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, is expected to continue policies that strengthen geopolitical ties with India. Unlike many Japanese leaders, Takaichi has maintained close connections with New Delhi over the years, having met PM Modi in 2015 and 2017 as Communications Minister to discuss digital economy cooperation, smart city projects, and cybersecurity.
The two leaders are expected to meet on the sidelines of the upcoming Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit and the East Asia Summit. This meeting will further cement the special strategic partnership between the two nations, which is considered crucial for Indo-Pacific stability.
FAQs
- Who is Sanae Takaichi?
Sanae Takaichi, 64, is Japan’s first female Prime Minister, elected from the Liberal Democratic Party and representing Nara Prefecture. She is a conservative politician and protégé of the late Shinzo Abe. - Why did PM Modi congratulate her?
PM Modi congratulated Takaichi on her historic election to strengthen India-Japan ties. He looks forward to closer collaboration on the Special Strategic and Global Partnership for Indo-Pacific stability. - What is the impact on India-Japan relations?
Takaichi’s leadership is expected to boost bilateral ties, building on past meetings with Modi. The leaders may meet at the ASEAN Summit to enhance cooperation in economy and security.