Japanese Defense Minister Minoru Kihara and Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa, along with their Australian counterparts Penny Wong and Richard Marles, convened in Queenscliff, a suburb of Melbourne, to discuss and solidify their bilateral relations. The meeting emphasized the importance of economic security and regional stability, with a shared commitment to enhancing their partnership in various areas.
One of the key outcomes of the 2+2 ministerial meeting was a joint statement outlining the agreed-upon measures to bolster cooperation between Japan and Australia. The nations pledged to intensify their economic security dialogue, enabling them to exchange information and collaborate on addressing economic and strategic risks in the region. Additionally, they committed to working together on formulating evacuation plans to ensure the safety of their citizens in case of emergencies occurring in other countries.
Japan views its relationship with Australia as a significant partnership, often referred to as a "quasi-alliance," highlighting the strategic importance both nations place on their cooperation. Tokyo has increasingly focused on enhancing security collaboration with Australia, considering it second only to its full-fledged military alliance with the United States. The joint statement issued following the ministerial meeting also underscored the deep concern over China's aggressive actions in the South China Sea and emphasized the need to oppose any attempts to alter the status quo through force or coercion.
Moreover, the collaboration between Japan and Australia extends to military exercises, with Australia set to participate in Orient Shield, a joint military drill involving the United States and Japan. This participation signals a strengthening of trilateral security cooperation in the region, reflecting a shared commitment to regional stability and security. Both nations are aligned in their condemnation of China's escalatory behavior and reaffirm their dedication to upholding international norms and promoting a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific region.