New Delhi: India and Japan held the 8th India-Japan Defence Policy Dialogue in Tokyo, Japan, on July 13, 2026, focusing on strengthening bilateral defence cooperation and addressing regional and global security challenges.
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 Mr. Kano Koji.
During the dialogue, both sides reviewed the progress made in defence cooperation since the previous meeting and reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening the India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership.
India and Japan Discuss Regional Security and Defence Cooperation
The two countries held detailed discussions on the evolving regional and global security environment and exchanged views on issues of mutual interest.
The dialogue covered a wide range of areas under bilateral defence cooperation, including:
- Military-to-military exchanges
- Cooperation between joint headquarters
- Maritime security cooperation
- Defence exercises
- Capacity-building initiatives
- Defence equipment and technology cooperation
- Maritime technology collaboration
- Strengthening institutional-level interactions
Both sides appreciated the steady growth of defence ties and emphasized the importance of maintaining regular high-level exchanges and dialogue mechanisms.
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Focus on Defence Technology, Cyber Security and Space Cooperation
India and Japan discussed ways to expand cooperation in emerging and strategic areas, including:
- Defence industrial collaboration
- Technological innovation
- Cyber security
- Space cooperation
- Other areas of shared strategic interest
The two countries expressed satisfaction with their growing alignment on regional and international security matters and agreed to continue working closely to enhance cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.
Commitment to Free, Open and Rules-Based Indo-Pacific Region
During the dialogue, India and Japan reiterated their shared commitment to promoting a free, open and rules-based Indo-Pacific region based on respect for international law.
Both sides highlighted the importance of continued cooperation to maintain peace, stability, and security in the region amid changing global security dynamics.
Discussions on Upcoming Ministerial-Level Engagements
The two delegations also discussed possible outcomes and preparations for upcoming ministerial visits, including the 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue scheduled later this year.
Both countries emphasized the importance of continued political and defence-level engagements to further strengthen strategic cooperation.
Defence Secretary Meets Japanese Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi
Earlier during his visit, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh met Japanese Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi and conveyed greetings from Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.
During the meeting, both sides reaffirmed the growing momentum of the India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership.
The Defence Secretary also extended an invitation from Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to the Japanese Defence Minister for an official visit to India at the earliest opportunity.
Defence Secretary Pays Tribute at Japan Self-Defense Forces Memorial
At the beginning of his visit, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh laid a wreath at the Self-Defense Forces Memorial Stone in Tokyo.
He paid tribute to members of the Japan Self-Defense Forces who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving their nation.
India-Japan Defence Partnership Continues to Strengthen
The 8th India-Japan Defence Policy Dialogue highlighted the deepening strategic partnership between the two countries.
The visit reflected the growing defence cooperation, mutual trust, and shared commitment of India and Japan towards promoting peace, security, and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
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