Tokyo: India-Japan defence policy dialogue was held in Tokyo on 13 July 2026, where senior defence officials from both countries reviewed the progress of bilateral defence cooperation and discussed regional security. The dialogue highlighted the growing strategic partnership between India and Japan. Both nations also reaffirmed their commitment to promoting a free, open, and rules-based Indo-Pacific region based on international law.
Details of India-Japan Defence Policy Dialogue 2026
India and Japan held the 8th India-Japan Defence Policy Dialogue in Tokyo on 13 July 2026. The Indian delegation was led by Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, while the Japanese delegation was headed by Vice Minister of Defence for International Affairs Kano Koji.
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Both sides reviewed the significant progress made in defence cooperation since their previous policy dialogue and agreed to strengthen their India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership. The discussions were held in a friendly and constructive atmosphere.
Key Issues Discussed During the India-Japan Defence Policy Dialogue 2026
The two countries exchanged views on the current regional and global security environment. They discussed the complete range of bilateral defence cooperation, including:
- Military-to-military exchanges
- Cooperation between joint headquarters
- Maritime defence cooperation
- Joint defence exercises
- Capacity building
- Defence equipment and technology cooperation
- Military technology collaboration
- Enhanced institutional interactions
Both countries agreed that regular high-level meetings are important for strengthening defence relations. They also discussed preparations for the upcoming 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue expected later this year.
What are the Focus Areas
India and Japan also explored ways to expand cooperation in several emerging sectors. These areas include:
- Defence industrial collaboration
- Technological innovation
- Cyber security
- Space cooperation
- Other strategic sectors of common interest
The two sides noted that India and Japan are increasingly sharing similar views on regional and global security challenges. They agreed to continue working closely to maintain peace, stability, and security across the Indo-Pacific region.
Strong Commitment to the Indo-Pacific
One of the biggest outcomes of the meeting was the renewed commitment to promoting a free, open, and rules-based Indo-Pacific. Both countries said this vision is based on respect for international law, peaceful cooperation, and regional stability. This reflects the growing strategic importance of the India-Japan partnership in the Indo-Pacific.
Defence Secretary Meets Japanese Defence Minister
During his visit to Tokyo, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh also met Japanese Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi. He conveyed greetings from Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh and reaffirmed India’s commitment to expanding bilateral defence ties.
The Defence Secretary also extended an invitation to the Japanese Defence Minister to visit India at the earliest opportunity.
Tribute to Japan’s Self-Defense Forces
Before the official meetings, the Defence Secretary paid tribute to Japan’s Self-Defense Forces.
He laid a wreath at the Self-Defense Forces Memorial Stone in Tokyo to honour the members who made the supreme sacrifice while serving their country. The gesture reflected the mutual respect and strong friendship shared by India and Japan.
What is the Importance of India-Japan Defence Policy Dialogue 2026
The India-Japan Defence Policy Dialogue comes at a time when security cooperation in the Indo-Pacific is becoming increasingly important. With growing cooperation in defence technology, maritime security, cyber security, and strategic coordination, India and Japan continue to strengthen their long-term partnership. The latest dialogue further reinforces both countries’ shared commitment to peace, stability, and a rules-based international order in the Indo-Pacific region.
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