India and Japan Strengthen Security Cooperation Pact to Counter China’s Growing Influence

India and Japan are taking a significant step to modernize their security relationship in response to the changing geopolitical landscape, particularly due to China’s expanding assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific region. Both nations have agreed to update their 2008 Joint Declaration on Security Cooperation to better align with contemporary challenges. The decision comes after a 2+2 dialogue involving the foreign and defense ministers of both countries, reflecting their deepening strategic ties and shared vision for a stable, rules-based Indo-Pacific.

The updated security pact is expected to be formally announced later this year during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Japan. It is designed to build on the foundation laid by the original 2008 declaration, which established robust security ties through high-level dialogues and consultations. However, the revised agreement will expand its scope to address current security concerns such as China’s growing military presence and economic influence in the region. The enhanced collaboration will likely include closer coordination in defense, intelligence sharing, and joint exercises.

India and Japan’s cooperation is part of a broader strategy to engage with other like-minded countries to ensure peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific. Both nations have been increasingly aligned in their strategic outlook, particularly in countering China’s aggressive posture in disputed waters and along international trade routes. Japan has been a key partner for India in forums like the Quad, which includes the United States and Australia, to promote a free and open Indo-Pacific.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasized the shared commitment to a "free, open, and rules-based Indo-Pacific," highlighting that coordinated security efforts between the two countries are essential for regional stability. The announcement of a new Indian consulate in Fukuoka, Japan, further signifies the growing depth of their bilateral ties.

The 2+2 dialogue also touched on other pressing global issues, including the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to upholding international norms and condemned any unilateral attempts to alter the status quo. The discussions also covered the need to combat cross-border terrorism, with both nations stressing the importance of bringing those responsible for past attacks to justice.

This modernization of the 2008 security pact signals a strong message of India and Japan’s unified approach to maintaining regional stability. As China continues to assert its influence in the Indo-Pacific, this enhanced partnership marks a critical step toward ensuring a balanced power dynamic in the region.