New Delhi: India and Japan have agreed to modernize their 2008 Joint Declaration on Security Cooperation in response to evolving strategic challenges, particularly China's increasing assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific.
This decision, announced following a 2+2 dialogue between the two countries' foreign and defense ministers, reflects a growing convergence on security issues and a shared vision for a rules-based Indo-Pacific order.
The updated declaration, expected to be unveiled during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Japan later this year, will address contemporary security concerns and lay the groundwork for enhanced collaboration between the two nations.
It will also expand upon the foundation established by the original declaration, which fostered stronger security ties through strategic dialogue and consultations between various high-level officials.
During the discussions, both sides explored potential security and defence cooperation with other like-minded countries to maintain peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific. This move underscores a shared concern about China's expanding influence and a desire to counterbalance it through multilateral cooperation.
Foreign Minister S Jaishankar highlighted the importance of a "free, open, and rules-based Indo-Pacific" for both India and Japan. He further emphasized the need for coordinated security and development assistance, announcing that India will open a new consulate in Fukuoka, Japan.
The 2+2 meeting also addressed regional and global issues, including the Russia-Ukraine war. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to upholding the rules-based international order and condemned any attempts to unilaterally change the status quo. Additionally, they underscored the importance of combating cross-border terrorism and called for bringing perpetrators of past attacks to justice.
This decision to update the 2008 security pact signifies a significant step in strengthening India-Japan relations and their joint efforts to maintain a stable and secure Indo-Pacific region.
