This policy brief traces the evolution of India-Japan science, technology and innovation (STI) cooperation from the establishment of diplomatic relations between two countries in 1952 to the outcomes of the 16th India-Japan Annual Summit in 2026. It highlights that bilateral scientific cooperation began much before the signing of the 1985 Agreement on Cooperation in Science and Technology. In its early days, cooperation was largely embedded within broader frameworks of cultural diplomacy,

India and the Republic of Korea (ROK) have unveiled a Joint Strategic Vision for 2026–2030 during the State visit of ROK President Lee Jae Myung to India. The vision outlines an ambitious roadmap to deepen the India–ROK Special Strategic Partnership across political, economic, technological, and cultural domains. The  Joint Strategic Vision (2026–2030) marks a shift from economic ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership spanning across domains such as digital and emerging technologies, space, climate and energy cooperation.

There are both opportunities and challenges for India and Russia in the present era as they seek to emerge as global knowledge economies. During the next two decades, the scientific ministries and agencies of both countries can strategically leverage collaborative advantage by building selected alliances and partnerships capable of delivering tangible outcomes.