Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and his Japanese counterpart Shinjiro Koizumi co-chaired the India-Japan Defence Ministers Meeting. The discussions focused on deepening maritime security, promoting 'Make in India' defense technology, and expanding strategic trust.
The India-Japan Defence Ministers Meeting was held today in New Delhi. The meeting was co-chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh of India and Shinjiro Koizumi, his Japanese counterpart. The discussions focused on deepening maritime security, promoting 'Make in India' defense technology, and expanding strategic trust.
In his opening remarks, Mr Singh welcomed Mr Koizumi and the delegation to India. He expressed sympathy and solidarity of the Government and people of India following the devastating earthquake in the Kumamoto region in Japan. Mr Singh said India is saddened by the loss of life and hardships faced by the affected people. He reassured and reaffirmed India’s commitment to providing any assistance, relief or support required during this difficult time.
Mr Singh highlighted that the maritime lifelines are facing growing vulnerabilities and the efforts to ensure freedom of navigation, overflight and unimpeded lawful commerce are not just an economic necessity but a strategic imperative. He said, the security of the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean is deeply interlinked.
Mr Singh stated that India-Japan relationship is rooted in shared democratic values, mutual respect and a long-standing civilisational connect. He said, both nations will celebrate 75 years of diplomatic relations next year. Mr Singh added that over the years, this friendship has grown into a cornerstone of stability, resilience and a rules-based order, not only for the two nations but also for the wider Indo-Pacific region.
Mr Koizumi expressed appreciation for the condolences to all those affected by the earthquake in Kumamoto Prefecture. He also appreciated the support provided by the Indian Navy during the medical emergency that occurred on a Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force vessel. Mr Koizumi said, this symbolises the cooperative relationship, where both nations can help each other when in trouble.
Mr Koizumi shared that he has a special place for India in his heart. The Japanese Minister said, on 6th August 2018, he visited India with fellow members of Parliament and participated in a memorial ceremony for the victims of the atomic bomb. He said, India is probably the only Parliament outside Japan that holds such a ceremony every year, and he expressed respect and gratitude for this tradition.
Recalling the Japan-India Joint Statement issued by the leaders of the two countries in July this year, the two Ministers affirmed their commitment, under their leadership, to further deepen defence cooperation to realise a free and open Indo-Pacific. The two Ministers affirmed that they would strengthen coordination between both sides for the protection of Sea Lines of Communications through mutual visits by naval ships and units, joint exercises, personnel and Subject Matter Expert exchanges and logistical support including use of ports, maintenance and repair facilities.
The two Ministers welcomed the steady expansion and deepening of bilateral exercises conducted by Japan and India, including the Japan-India Army exercise Dharma Guardian and the Japan-India Maritime Exercise JAIMEX. They also welcomed the steady progress in coordination for the Japan-India Air Force exercise Veer Guardian 26, scheduled to be held this year.
Source:
Akashvani News
