Sanae Takaichi's Poll Victory Signals Stronger India-Japan Relations

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi expressed her gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi after her ruling coalition secured a decisive two-thirds majority in Japan’s House of Representatives. In a post on X, she thanked Modi for his warm wishes and pledged to strengthen the Special Strategic and Global Partnership between the two nations.

She also conveyed her appreciation in Hindi, underlining the growing personal and diplomatic warmth between New Delhi and Tokyo.

Landslide Mandate Strengthens LDP’s Position

The Liberal Democratic Party, led by Takaichi, won 310 seats in the 465-member lower house, according to Kyodo News. This overwhelming majority allows the ruling coalition to pass key legislation and pursue constitutional reforms, even if blocked by the upper house.

The victory marks the first time in post-war Japan that a party has achieved such a commanding margin, significantly improving on its pre-election strength of 198 seats.

Prime Minister Modi congratulated Takaichi on her landmark victory, highlighting the role of the India-Japan partnership in promoting global peace, stability, and prosperity.

In his post, Modi expressed confidence that under Takaichi’s leadership, bilateral ties would reach new heights, guided by the eight strategic directions outlined during the 2025 Annual Summit in Japan.

Focus on Free and Open Indo-Pacific Vision

Both leaders reiterated their commitment to advancing a Free and Open Indo-Pacific. The joint vision agreed upon in August 2025 emphasizes a rules-based, peaceful, and prosperous regional order.

Takaichi reaffirmed that cooperation with India would remain central to Japan’s foreign policy, especially in areas of security, economic collaboration, and regional stability.

After taking office in October, Takaichi became Japan’s first woman prime minister. The election results have now firmly consolidated her political position.

Speaking after the victory, she said the government bears a heavy responsibility to deliver on its campaign promises and focus on stable governance.

Opposition and Smaller Parties Face Mixed Fortunes

The election proved disastrous for the Centrist Reform Alliance, whose seat count was reduced by half. Its leaders signalled possible resignations following the defeat.

Among smaller parties, Sanseito made significant gains with 13 seats, while Team Mirai entered the lower house for the first time, securing nine seats and promoting digital participation in politics.

(With inputs from ANI)