Japan is set to enhance connectivity between Northeast India and the Bay of Bengal, as announced by Deputy Foreign Minister Horii Iwao on February 27, 2026, during a foreign policy conclave in Shillong, Meghalaya. He emphasized the pivotal role of Northeast India as a gateway to Southeast Asia, highlighting its potential to drive regional economic growth when integrated with Southeast Asia, Bangladesh, and Nepal.
Horii Iwao stated that Japan is firmly committed to the development of Northeast India, aiming to connect the region to the sea and promote comprehensive regional development. This initiative aligns with Japan’s Free and Open Indo-Pacific policy, which includes establishing an Industrial Value Chain linking the Bay of Bengal with Northeast India.
The Deputy Foreign Minister also pointed out Japan’s dedication to strengthening people-to-people ties and private-sector cooperation in economic security, semiconductors, and clean energy under the new government led by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi.
This announcement follows a series of diplomatic engagements, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Japan in August 2025 and meetings with Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi during the G20 summit in South Africa. As Japan and India continue to deepen their strategic partnership, further developments in connectivity and regional cooperation are anticipated.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, February 28th, 2026
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