Japan and Australia Enhance Defence Cooperation Amid Regional Tensions

Japanese and Australian ministers convened on September 5, 2023, in Tokyo to reinforce their defence cooperation, a strategic move following a significant military parade held in Beijing. This meeting comes amid rising tensions in the Asia-Pacific region, particularly concerning territorial disputes involving China.

The bilateral discussions included both foreign and defence ministers, with Japan’s Defence Minister Gen Nakatani emphasizing the necessity of collaboration to counteract unilateral changes to the status quo by force. He stated, “Reaffirming the importance of working together to prevent unilateral changes to the status quo by force, we agreed to strengthen cooperation.” This sentiment reflects a shared commitment to stability in the region, particularly in light of increasing military activities from China.

The meeting follows a military parade in Beijing attended by prominent leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. Analysts interpret this gathering as part of Chinese President Xi Jinping‘s vision for a new world order that seeks to diminish U.S. influence in the area.

In their discussions, Nakatani and Penny Wong, Australia’s Foreign Minister, reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing ties not only with each other but also with regional partners. Nakatani noted that cooperation with the Philippines, India, South Korea, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), and Pacific countries will be strengthened.

The two nations also agreed to conduct advanced military training exercises and collaborate on economic security initiatives, particularly in sectors related to critical minerals and energy resources. These agreements come in the wake of Australia’s announcement in August of a US$6 billion deal to procure 11 advanced warships from Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, marking a significant leap in Japan’s defence exports since World War II.

Australia is currently undergoing a substantial military restructuring, focusing on bolstering its naval capabilities with long-range firepower aimed at deterring potential threats from China. The ongoing disputes over the Japan-controlled islands in the East China Sea further complicate the regional dynamics, with Japan consistently protesting the presence of Chinese coast guard vessels in the vicinity.

Wong echoed Nakatani’s concerns, stating, “We’ve also expressed concerns over destabilising activities in the East and South China seas and reaffirmed our long-standing position to oppose any unilateral changes to the status quo.” She emphasized the need for both nations to collaborate in building resilience and responding to emerging security threats.

This deepening of defence ties between Japan and Australia signals a concerted effort to adapt to the evolving geopolitical landscape in the Asia-Pacific region. As the two countries navigate their respective challenges, their partnership is likely to play a pivotal role in shaping regional security dynamics.