Indian Ambassador to Japan Sibi George has reaffirmed the strength of the Quad partnership between Australia, India, Japan, and the United States, even as trade tensions rise following Washington’s announcement of sweeping tariffs on Indian products.
Speaking in an interview in Tokyo’s Chiyoda Ward on August 1, George acknowledged concerns that U.S. tariffs could strain bilateral ties but emphasized that shared values—such as democracy and the rule of law—continue to underpin cooperation among the four nations.
“Differences may exist, and there may be different opinions on certain issues,” George said, “but the Quad framework is making significant progress.” He noted that the four countries have already convened two foreign ministers’ meetings this year and expressed hope for a Quad summit scheduled to take place in New Delhi later in 2025.
On New Delhi’s policy stance regarding potential retaliatory measures against the United States, George stated that any decision would be guided by the needs of Indian citizens, remarking that “Indians have their requirements.”
The interview also highlighted the deepening of Japan-India ties, with 2025 designated as an exchange year in science, technology, and innovation to mark the 40th anniversary of their bilateral cooperation agreement in these fields. George underlined the importance of increased academic and student exchanges, stressing that “sustained interactions between research institutes and scientists” will help both nations advance innovation.
Currently, around 1,500 Japanese firms are operating in India, though the ambassador noted that smaller Japanese businesses have yet to fully explore opportunities in the South Asian market. Having traveled across all 47 prefectures of Japan and engaged with business leaders, George said he aims to promote success stories of Japanese companies thriving in India as a way to encourage broader participation.
As India prepares to celebrate its Independence Day on August 15, George’s remarks underscored both the resilience of Quad cooperation and the growing momentum of India-Japan collaboration, even amid evolving global trade dynamics.
Source:https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/08/14/japan/india-ambassador-interview/
