Image Credits: The Economic Times
Japan and India have significantly bolstered their security ties in a strategic move aimed at countering China’s growing assertiveness. The commitment to deeper security cooperation was solidified during a high-level two-plus-two meeting held on Tuesday, highlighting both countries’ intent to address regional and global security challenges.
Japanese Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa emphasized the shared resolve of Japan and India to act as key contributors to global peace and stability. Following the meeting, Kamikawa articulated the mutual determination to collaborate closely in addressing security concerns and maintaining regional stability.
Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh echoed these sentiments, underscoring the alignment of values between the two nations concerning the Indo-Pacific region. The urgency to counter China’s increasingly aggressive policies is a driving force behind their enhanced security partnership.
Japan has faced increased incursions by Chinese Coast Guard vessels into its territorial waters around the Senkaku Islands in Okinawa Prefecture. Concurrently, India’s relations with China have strained significantly since the deadly clash between their military forces in the Galwan Valley of Kashmir in June 2020.
China’s expanding influence, including the docking of a Chinese research vessel in Sri Lanka in August 2022, has further heightened regional tensions. India, which has traditionally maintained strong ties with Russia, has pursued a policy of strategic autonomy. This includes significant arms procurement from Russia, though India has recently focused on increasing domestic arms production and diversifying its defense suppliers.
Despite India’s continued reliance on Russian military hardware and its abstention from joining Western sanctions against Russia over its aggression in Ukraine, Japan and India find common ground in their defense strategies. Japan is keen to enhance cooperation through defense exports, space and cyber collaboration, and joint training exercises.
The growing partnership between Japan and India reflects their strategic alignment in addressing shared security challenges and adapting to the shifting dynamics of international relations.