On global disputes, India & Japan reaffirm peaceful settlement need

Highlights:

• This reaffirmation was part of a joint statement following the third Japan-India 2+2 Foreign and Defence Ministerial Meeting held in New Delhi, emphasizing respect for national sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the peaceful resolution of disputes.
• The meeting was attended by India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, and their Japanese counterparts, Kihara Minoru and Kamikawa Yoko.

Commitment to a Rules-Based International Order

• The joint statement emphasized the need for all countries to refrain from unilateral actions that could alter the status quo, reinforcing their mutual dedication to maintaining stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

Enhancing Defence and Security Cooperation

• The ministers welcomed ongoing and future cooperation between the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force and the Indian Navy, particularly in the area of ship maintenance in India.The possibility of updating the 2008 Joint Declaration on Security Cooperation to address contemporary security challenges was also discussed, signaling both countries' intent to strengthen their defense ties.

Strategic Vision for the Indo-Pacific

• Both sides reiterated their commitment to a free, open, inclusive, peaceful, and resilient Indo-Pacific region, underlining the importance of ASEAN's unity and centrality in regional security..

Progress in Bilateral and Multilateral Defence Initiatives

• They highlighted the successful participation of Japanese fighter jets in the Tarang Shakti exercise and the inaugural bilateral fighter exercise "Veer Guardian 2023" between the Japan Air Self-Defense Force and the Indian Air Force.
• Significant progress was made in the transfer of the Unified Complex Radio Antenna (UNICORN) and related technologies.

Expanding People-to-People Exchanges

• They appreciated India's decision to establish a new Consulate in Fukuoka and looked forward to the upcoming India Month in Japan and Japan Month in India, set to be celebrated in September.

Prelims takeaway:

• ASEAN
• Veer Guardian