India and Japan Strengthen Ties for a Peaceful Indo-Pacific
On August 20, leaders from India and Japan met in New Delhi for the third 2+2 Foreign and Defence Ministerial Meeting. The meeting included India’s Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Japan’s Foreign Affairs Minister Kamikawa Yoko, and Defence Minister Kihara Minoru.
Commitment to International Order
Both nations reaffirmed their commitment to a rules-based international order, respecting national sovereignty and territorial integrity. They appreciated the progress on the transfer of Unified Complex Radio Antenna (UNICORN) technologies.
Focus on Indo-Pacific Region
The leaders emphasized their shared vision for a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific region. They condemned terrorism and called for action against terrorist groups like Al Qaeda, ISIS, and others.
Support for ASEAN
India and Japan reiterated their support for ASEAN’s principles and the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP). They discussed regional and global issues, focusing on the Indo-Pacific.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations
Rajnath Singh highlighted the importance of the India-Japan partnership for regional peace and stability. He noted the increase in bilateral and defence cooperation, including joint exercises in all three services for the first time in one year.
Future Cooperation
Both nations agreed to deepen cooperation in areas like space, maritime affairs, and economic security. They also plan to work together on UN Security Council reforms.
New Consulate in Fukuoka
S Jaishankar announced the opening of a new Indian Consulate in Fukuoka to strengthen people-to-people ties.
Japanese Perspective
Japanese Foreign Minister Kamikawa Yoko emphasized the importance of cooperation for regional peace and prosperity. She highlighted the commitment to a Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP) and the need to uphold international order based on the rule of law.
Doubts Revealed
Indo-Pacific -: The Indo-Pacific is a region that includes the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean. It is important for trade and security.
2+2 Foreign and Defence Ministerial Meeting -: This is a meeting where the foreign and defense ministers of two countries come together to discuss important issues. In this case, it was India and Japan.
New Delhi -: New Delhi is the capital city of India. It is where many important government meetings happen.
rules-based international order -: This means that countries agree to follow certain rules and laws to keep peace and fairness in the world.
ASEAN -: ASEAN stands for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. It is a group of countries in Southeast Asia that work together on economic and political issues.
consulate -: A consulate is an office in a foreign country that helps its own citizens and works on building good relations with that country. India is opening a new one in Fukuoka, Japan.
Fukuoka -: Fukuoka is a city in Japan. It is known for its beautiful temples and modern buildings.
Kamikawa Yoko -: Kamikawa Yoko is the Foreign Minister of Japan. She talks to other countries to help keep peace and good relations.