India, Japan Condemn Terrorism, Pledge to Strengthen Defence Cooperation

New Delhi: Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Japanese Defense Minister Gen Nakatani held a bilateral meeting at Manekshaw Centre, New Delhi, where they condemned terrorism in all its forms and emphasized the need for global cooperation to combat it.

Rajnath Singh specifically condemned Pakistan’s state policy of cross-border terrorism against India, stating that such attacks destabilize regional peace and security. He called for a unified stand against terrorism and state-sponsored actions that perpetuate it.

The Japanese Defense Minister expressed condolences for the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, on April 22, and offered full support to India. Both ministers reviewed the defence and security pillars of the India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership and reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and contributing to regional peace.

They welcomed the growing diversity and frequency of defence exercises and exchanges between the two countries and agreed to enhance the scope and complexity of these engagements. The ministers also decided to add new dimensions to maritime cooperation and explore collaboration in niche domains such as automation and Artificial Intelligence.

Rajnath Singh highlighted the capabilities of the Indian defence industry, particularly its potential to collaborate with Japan on new areas like tank engines and aero engines. Both sides agreed to enhance industry cooperation, including Maintenance Repair and Overhaul operations, and take forward cooperation in emerging areas like cyber and space.

The meeting concluded with a strong commitment from both sides to enhance bilateral defence cooperation, further strengthening the India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership.