Tokyo: Japanese Defense Minister Gen Nakatani and his British counterpart John Healey have announced plans to bolster defense cooperation, marking a significant development in the partnership between Asia and Europe, as stated by Japan's Defense Ministry.
According to Kuwait News Agency, during discussions in Tokyo, Nakatani and Healey acknowledged the interconnected security concerns of the Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific regions. The talks culminated in the first joint statement between the two defense authorities, highlighting their commitment to intensifying collaboration across all military services, including joint exercises. Additionally, both nations aim to enhance cooperation on defense equipment and technology, with a particular focus on the Global Combat Air Program, a trilateral initiative with Italy aimed at developing a next-generation fighter aircraft by 2035.
The defense leaders also concurred on expanding cooperation into new domains, such as space and cyber, and promoting initiatives related to Women, Peace, and Security. Nakatani praised the British carrier strike group led by HMS Prince of Wales for its port call, viewing it as a testament to the advancing Japan-UK defense cooperation and Britain's unwavering commitment to peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. Healey expressed his agreement with Nakatani's sentiments.