Strengthening India-Japan Defence Ties: Key Meeting Ahead
Bilateral Defence Meeting Scheduled
File image of defence minister Rajnath Singh(Photo: IANS)
New Delhi, Aug 19: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is set to meet with his Japanese counterpart, Shinjiro Koizumi, on Thursday. This meeting aims to bolster defence relations, enhance strategic trust, and promote stability in the Indo-Pacific region, as stated by the Defence Ministry on Wednesday.
The discussions will focus on advancing maritime security cooperation and fostering closer collaboration in defence equipment and technology, particularly under the 'Make in India' initiative, following Japan's updated 'Three Principles on Transfer of Defence Equipment and Technology'.
This meeting is a significant opportunity to outline a roadmap for enhancing bilateral defence and security ties, according to the ministry's statement.
During his first visit to India, Shinjiro Koizumi toured the Western Naval Command in Mumbai on Wednesday, engaging in talks with Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Krishna Swaminathan and Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan, the Flag Officer Commanding in Chief. The delegation received insights into the operational capabilities and responsibilities of the Indian Navy.
Upon his arrival, Koizumi was honored with a Guard of Honour at the Western Naval Command. He also laid a wreath at the Gaurav Stambh at the Naval Dockyard and visited the indigenous ship INS Chennai.
India and Japan are united in their vision for a free, open, resilient, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region. The two-day visit by the Japanese Defence Minister highlights the increasing momentum in their defence cooperation and both nations' commitment to expanding their partnership.
This visit follows Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's recent trip to Delhi for an annual summit with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, where both leaders agreed to enhance defence and security collaboration.