On March 19, Japan hosted the second ministerial-level defense dialogue with Pacific island nations in Tokyo.
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| Japan and Pacific island nations have launched a defence dialogue framework from 2021. (Source: NUS) |
At the two-day meeting, Japanese Defense Minister Minoru Kihara and his counterparts will reaffirm the importance of a free, open and sustainable maritime order based on the rule of law, Kyodo reported.
Fiji and Papua New Guinea sent their defense ministers, while the Crown Prince of Tonga represented his country.
According to Japan's Defense Ministry , 11 other countries, without military forces, will send senior officials to participate in the meeting in person or online.
Japan and Pacific island nations launched a multinational defense dialogue framework in September 2021, which was held virtually due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
The meetings come ahead of the 10th Pacific Islands Leaders' Meeting, scheduled for July in Tokyo, which will be attended by Japan along with 18 countries and territories, including Australia and New Zealand. Japan has hosted the summit every three years since 1997.
As part of its efforts to strengthen ties with developing and emerging nations, often referred to collectively as the “Global South,” Japan has helped strengthen the defense and coastal protection capabilities of Pacific island nations.
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