SINGAPORE – Singapore and Japan have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening defense cooperation during a recent meeting between their respective defense ministers. This dialogue took place on the sidelines of the Shangri-La Dialogue, a premier security summit held annually in Singapore.
During the meeting, Japanese Defense Minister Minoru Kihara and Singapore’s Defense Minister Ng Eng Hen discussed avenues to enhance bilateral defense relations. Both ministers acknowledged the importance of close communication between their defense establishments and expressed a shared interest in expanding cooperation in areas such as defense technology, logistics, and strategic communications.
The ministers also addressed regional security challenges, emphasizing the need for a stable and rules-based international order. They concurred on the significance of upholding international law and promoting confidence-building measures to maintain regional peace and stability.
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This meeting builds upon the Enhanced Memorandum on Defence Exchanges signed between Singapore and Japan in 2022, which identified new areas of cooperation, including protection against Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Explosive (CBRE) threats, and maritime security.
Furthermore, Singapore is set to assume the role of ASEAN Country Coordinator for Japan from mid-2024 to 2027, a position that will facilitate deeper engagement between Japan and ASEAN member states. This coordination is expected to bolster multilateral defense initiatives and promote regional security cooperation.
Japan has been actively involved in the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus (ADMM-Plus), co-chairing various expert working groups and participating in joint exercises aimed at enhancing regional defense capabilities.
The continued collaboration between Singapore and Japan underscores their shared commitment to addressing evolving security challenges and contributing to regional stability through strengthened defense partnerships.
Source: CNA
