Japan's Defence Minister Pledges Cooperation on Maritime Security and Energy in Southeast Asia
Key Ideas
- Japan's Defence Minister Ishiba pledged to enhance maritime security cooperation with Indonesia, including the provision of high-speed patrol boats.
- Both countries will establish working-level defence consultations and cooperate in decarbonized energy sectors like geothermal power, hydrogen, ammonia, and biofuels.
- Ishiba highlighted the importance of strengthening ties with Southeast Asia, emphasizing the significance of collaboration for peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
- Japan is deepening security ties in the region, particularly in response to China's increasing military activities in the South China Sea and the East China Sea.
During a visit to Jakarta, Japan's Defence Minister Ishiba met with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto to discuss various bilateral issues. They agreed to establish working-level defence consultations on maritime security and provide high-speed patrol boats through Official Security Assistance. Additionally, the two countries will collaborate in decarbonized energy sectors, including geothermal power, hydrogen, ammonia, and biofuels. Ishiba also held talks with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim in Kuala Lumpur, emphasizing the importance of strengthening ties with Southeast Asia. He highlighted Japan's commitment to enhancing cooperation for peace and stability in the region, especially in light of China's assertive military activities in the South China Sea and the East China Sea. Ishiba's diplomatic engagement in Southeast Asia aims to reinforce Japan's security ties and promote regional stability, with a focus on maritime security and energy cooperation.