Tokyo, Japan: India and Japan held the 8th Defence Policy Dialogue in Tokyo on 13 July 2026, reaffirming their commitment to further strengthen the India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership.
The Indian delegation was led by Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh, while the Japanese side was headed by Vice Minister of Defence for International Affairs Mr. Kano Koji.
During the high-level dialogue, both sides reviewed the significant progress achieved in bilateral defence cooperation since the previous meeting and discussed measures to expand collaboration across multiple strategic areas.
The two countries held detailed discussions on the regional and global security environment and exchanged views on issues of mutual concern. The dialogue covered the entire spectrum of India-Japan defence engagement, including military-to-military exchanges, cooperation between joint headquarters, maritime security cooperation, defence exercises, capacity building initiatives, defence equipment and technology cooperation, including maritime technologies, and strengthening institutional mechanisms.
Both delegations welcomed the steady growth of defence ties and stressed the importance of maintaining regular high-level interactions and dialogue platforms. Discussions also focused on the expected outcomes of upcoming ministerial engagements, including the proposed 2+2 dialogue later this year.
Focus on Emerging Defence Technologies and Indo-Pacific Security
India and Japan also explored opportunities to enhance cooperation in emerging fields such as defence industrial collaboration, technological innovation, cyber security, space cooperation, and other areas of strategic importance.
Both sides expressed satisfaction over the growing alignment between the two countries on regional and global security challenges and reiterated their resolve to work closely in the Indo-Pacific region.
The two nations reaffirmed their shared vision of promoting a free, open, inclusive and rules-based Indo-Pacific region, guided by respect for international law.
During the meeting, Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh appreciated Japan’s continued engagement with India in the defence sector and emphasised the need to enhance practical cooperation under the framework of the India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership.
Mr. Kano Koji reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to further expanding defence cooperation with India in priority areas and strengthening bilateral security ties.
Defence Secretary Meets Japanese Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi
Earlier in the day, Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh called on Japanese Minister of Defence Mr. Shinjiro Koizumi and conveyed the greetings of Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh.
During the meeting, both sides highlighted the growing momentum in India-Japan strategic cooperation. The Defence Secretary also presented an invitation from Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh to the Japanese Defence Minister for an early visit to India.
As part of his visit, Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh paid tribute by laying a wreath at the Self-Defense Forces Memorial Stone in Tokyo, honouring the members of the Japan Self-Defense Forces who made the supreme sacrifice in service of their nation.
The visit reflected the deepening defence partnership between India and Japan, built on mutual trust, shared values, and a common commitment towards peace, security and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh laid a wreath at the Self-Defense Forces Memorial Stone in Tokyo on July 13, 2026, paying homage to the brave men and women who made the supreme sacrifice in service of their nation. The solemn tribute reflects the enduring India-Japan Special Strategic & Global Partnership, founded on shared values, mutual respect, and a common commitment to peace and stability.