India–Japan Hold 2+2 Dialogue on Defence and Foreign Affairs

India and Japan held the latest edition of their 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue, bringing together the Foreign and Defence Ministers of both countries to review the full spectrum of bilateral strategic cooperation. The dialogue underscored the growing convergence between the two nations on security, economic and geopolitical challenges in the Indo-Pacific region.

A major focus of the discussions was defence and security cooperation, including defence technology collaboration, joint military exercises and capacity-building initiatives. Both sides explored ways to deepen cooperation in emerging defence technologies and strengthen interoperability between their armed forces. Maritime security featured prominently, with particular emphasis on maintaining freedom of navigation and overflight, respecting international law, and ensuring stability in the Indo-Pacific maritime domain.

The two countries also discussed enhancing supply-chain resilience, especially in critical sectors such as semiconductors, rare earths and advanced manufacturing. In the context of recent global disruptions, India and Japan reaffirmed the importance of diversifying supply chains and reducing over-dependence on any single country. Cooperation under initiatives such as the Supply Chain Resilience Initiative (SCRI) was reviewed as a key pillar of economic security.

Both sides reiterated their shared commitment to a Free, Open and Inclusive Indo-Pacific (FOIP), firmly opposing unilateral actions and coercive practices that undermine regional stability. Without naming any country, the dialogue reflected shared concerns over assertive behaviour in the region and highlighted the need for peaceful resolution of disputes through dialogue and adherence to international norms, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

The ministers also exchanged views on regional and global developments, including the situation in East Asia, South Asia and ongoing international conflicts. The dialogue reaffirmed the importance of multilateral platforms such as QUAD, ASEAN-led mechanisms and other regional forums in promoting a rules-based order.

The India–Japan 2+2 Dialogue reflects the deepening Special Strategic and Global Partnership between the two countries. Experts note that sustained engagement at this level strengthens mutual trust, enhances strategic coordination and contributes to long-term peace, stability and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region.