Tokyo: Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi and his Australian counterpart Penny Wong have committed to advancing multi-layered cooperation with like-minded nations. This initiative includes frameworks such as Japan-US-Australia collaboration and the four-nation "Quad" group, which involves India, to promote a "Free and Open Indo-Pacific," as reported by Japan's Foreign Ministry.
According to Kuwait News Agency, during a 20-minute teleconference, Motegi and Wong reiterated their dedication to fostering close cooperation between their countries to ensure peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. They exchanged candid views on the current situation in the region as part of their discussions, as outlined in a statement released by the ministry.
The foreign ministers also emphasized the significance of bilateral cooperation in economic security. They agreed on the necessity of strengthening supply chain resilience for critical minerals and committed to enhancing collaboration in this sector through the effective implementation of existing projects.
Furthermore, Motegi and Wong concurred on maintaining close communication to jointly build momentum for the upcoming 50th anniversary of the signing of the Japan-Australia Basic Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation next year. They aim to outline the direction for future cooperation between the two nations.