India, Japan resolves to fight terror, enhance Defence

Tokyo, Dec 15: India and Japan today resolved to intensify cooperation to stamp out terrorism and enhance Defence ties and reaffirmed their determination to work closely for achieving comprehensive reforms of the United Nations.

The two countries unequivocally condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, stating that there can be no justification whatsoever for any act of terrorism. said a Joint statement issued after comprehensive talks between Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe here this evening.

The two leaders called upon the UN to work towards the expeditious adoption of a Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism.

The two countries reiterated their commitment to enhance defence cooperation to achieve the common goal of promoting security, stability and prosperity in Asia and the world at large as well as in tackling regional and global security challanges.

The two countries, which are already enganged in service-to-service cooperation, also decided to undertake joint naval exercises.

Recognising that Japan and India have large Exclusive Economic Zones and maritime interests, the two countries said they will work closely to enhance cooperation in capacity building, technical assistance and information sharing between their respective agencies concerned for taking anti-piracy measures. It was stressed that there was an urgent need to cooperate in order to ensure the safety and security of international maritime traffic vital for the economic well being of the region.

India and Japan welcomed conclusion of a Memorandum of Cooperation between the coast guards as well as coming into force of the Regional Cooperation Agreement on Combating Piracy and Armed Robbery against Ships in Asia.

On the UN reforms, the two countries felt that the intiative of the G-4 countries has brought the issue to the attention of the international community. They agreed to strengthen cooperation and coordination for reforms of the UN, including the Security Council expansion in both, permanent and non-permanent categories to reflect contemporary realities of the world.

UNI

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