New Delhi: There was a meeting between Defense Minister Rajnath Singh and Japan's Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi in New Delhi on Thursday. During this, both the leaders discussed further strengthening the defense relations between India and Japan. Especially the emphasis was on increasing cooperation in maritime security, defense technology and the Indo-Pacific region. Also, in the meeting, both the countries clearly said that the Indo-Pacific region should be open, free and according to the rules.
Along with this, both sides also shared their views on the changing security situation in the region and the world. At the same time, India and Japan opposed unilateral efforts to affect the security of sea lanes and freedom of navigation.
Important agreement reached on maritime security
According to the information, during the meeting, India and Japan have signed a memorandum of understanding regarding maritime security. This will further increase cooperation between the Indian Navy and Japan's Maritime Self Defense Force. Both countries will promote naval ship visits, joint exercises and exchange of officers and experts. Apart from this, if needed, both the countries will also support each other in logistics help, search and rescue operations and humanitarian assistance in times of disaster.
8月20日、インドを訪問中の小泉防衛大臣は、シン国防大臣と日印防衛相会談を実施しました。両大臣は、日本とインドの「特別戦略的グローバル・パートナーシップ」のもと、両国の防衛面の連携が着実に強化されてきたことを歓迎するとともに、海洋安全保障協力に関する覚書に署名し、自由で開かれたイン… pic.twitter.com/7QOe6HSiSr
— 防衛省、自衛隊 (@ModJapan_jp) August 20, 2026
Partnership will also increase in defense technology
India and Japan will now also explore the possibilities of joint projects related to design and construction of naval ships. There is a plan to use the technical capability of Japan and the manufacturing power of India. Both the countries have also agreed to increase cooperation in the defense sector under 'Make in India'. Rajnath Singh welcomed Japan's new framework related to transfer of defense equipment and technology.
Consensus also reached on military exercises
Along with this, both the countries discussed further strengthening military exercises like Dharma Guardian, JIMEX and Veer Guardian 26. Emphasis was also laid on increasing training and mutual contact between special forces. Apart from this, the project related to UNICORN communication system was also discussed. This is the first project related to transfer of defense equipment between India and Japan. Both countries have also reiterated their commitment to further cooperation in the field of defense research and modern technology.