India and Japan signed a maritime security cooperation arrangement during talks between Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and his Japanese counterpart Shinjiro Koizumi in New Delhi. The two sides agreed to deepen naval cooperation, explore joint shipbuilding, expand military exercises and strengthen defence technology and R&D ties while supporting a free and open Indo-Pacific.

New Delhi [India], August 20: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday held a bilateral meeting with Japanese Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi in the national capital, where both nations agreed to expand cooperation across key sectors, including maritime security and the Indo-Pacific region.

Focus on Indo-Pacific security

Signalling a firm posture amid regional assertiveness, both ministers affirmed that the Indo-Pacific must remain free and open. They further exchanged perspectives regarding the regional and international security environment against the backdrop of prevailing global tensions.

Reiterating their firm opposition to any unilateral attempts to alter the status quo affecting navigation rights, a joint statement noted, "The two Ministers concurred on deepening operational cooperation in the field of maritime security in a practical and effective manner."