The foreign and defense ministers of Japan and India have agreed to review the two countries’ joint declaration on security cooperation in a bid to ensure stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
The two countries held a “two-plus-two” meeting in New Delhi on Tuesday. From Japan, Foreign Minister Kamikawa Yoko and Defense Minister Kihara Minoru attended. India was represented by External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.
A joint statement noted that the four ministers shared the intention to revise and update the joint declaration the two countries signed in 2008.
The ministers stressed their opposition to any unilateral attempt to change the status quo, apparently with China’s growing maritime assertiveness in mind.
The two sides discussed the transfer to India of the latest radar equipment used for Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force destroyers.
They agreed to advance joint drills between the Japan Self-Defense Forces and the Indian military.
The ministers also agreed to deepen bilateral cooperation in the space and cyber fields.
They reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing cooperation among member nations of the Quad framework — Japan, India, the United States and Australia.
At a joint news conference, Kamikawa noted the international security environment is becoming increasingly severe.
She said Japan and India renewed their strong determination to work together as partners to come up with new solutions in pursuit of regional peace and stability.
Kihara said the two countries agreed to deepen cooperation in defense equipment and technology through the transfer of Japan’s latest radio antennas to India. He added that he was able to underscore the importance of strengthening coordination with like-minded nations.