India, Japan agree to boost maritime security ties

India and Japan have pledged to strengthen their security partnership, with a specific focus on maritime cooperation, following a meeting between their defense ministers in New Delhi.

Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh and his Japanese counterpart Shinjiro Koizumi held discussions that culminated in the signing of a memorandum on maritime security cooperation. This agreement underscores the deepening strategic ties between the two nations, who are both key members of the Quad security alliance alongside the United States and Australia.

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The two ministers affirmed their commitment... to further deepen defence cooperation to realise a free and open Indo-Pacific.

The Quad is widely viewed as a collective effort to counterbalance China's expanding military and economic presence across the Indo-Pacific. The joint statement issued after the meeting affirmed a mutual commitment to further deepen defense cooperation, essential for realizing a 'free and open Indo-Pacific.' Both ministers emphasized the vital importance of such cooperation not only for Japan and India but also for the broader region and the international community.

Looking ahead, the ministers agreed to explore avenues for joint development in naval shipbuilding and design. This initiative seeks to leverage Japan's advanced technological expertise with India's robust manufacturing capacity, particularly under its 'Make in India' program. The collaboration aims to enhance the naval capabilities of both countries and contribute to regional stability.

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Such cooperation is vital not only to Japan and India, but also to the region and the international community.