Australia and Japan have agreed next steps to enhance defence and security cooperation, in order to support our shared ambition for a peaceful, stable and prosperous region.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese of Australia and Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae of Japan met in Canberra today and issued the Joint Statement on Enhanced Defence and Security Cooperation.
This marks a natural evolution of our already close cooperation with Japan. Building on decades of engagement, the 2022 Australia-Japan Joint Declaration on Security Cooperation, the 2023 Australia-Japan Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) and last December’s establishment of the Framework for Strategic Defence Cooperation (FSDC), it focuses on strengthening capability, deepening integration and bolstering interoperability between Australia and Japan.
Key priorities include increased information sharing; co-development, co-production and co-sustainment of defence capabilities; advanced weapons testing; enhanced training and exercises; joint maintenance and sustainment of assets, and closer collaboration to secure supply chains and critical maritime routes.
It also reflects a shared commitment to deepening cooperation in key areas, including defence industry following Australia’s decision to procure the upgraded Mogami class frigates for Australia’s general purpose frigate program.
Quotes attributable to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese
“In a complex strategic environment, cooperation between Australia and Japan is essential to maintaining a peaceful, stable and prosperous region.
“Enhanced defence and security cooperation between Australia and Japan increases interoperability between our defence forces, ensuring Australia and Japan can work closely together to support regional peace and security.”
Quotes attributable to Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles
“Our enhanced defence cooperation with Japan means our forces can train, plan and operate together with greater sophistication – strengthening our combined capability and supporting deterrence.”
“Australia and Japan share a strong commitment to regional stability, and at a time of global uncertainty, strengthening our longstanding defence cooperation is more important than ever.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Foreign Affairs
“As Special Strategic Partners, Australia and Japan are stepping up our defence and security cooperation as part of our efforts to ensure a peaceful, stable and prosperous region.
“In these uncertain times, middle powers must keep working together for a free and open Indo-Pacific, and a world where no country dominates and no country is dominated.”