India, Japan sign comprehensive security pact

Tokyo, Oct. 22 : In a move that could change the geopolitical dynamics of Asia, both India and Japan have decided to create a comprehensive framework for the enhancement of security cooperation.

It will include a fight against terrorism and transnational crimes, safety of transport, cooperation between coast guards and information exchange and policy coordination on regional affairs in the Asia Pacific region and on long-term strategic and global issues.

It was also agreed that bilateral consultation would be conducted to promote counter-terrorism cooperation through joint working group between the relevant government offices including the ministries of foreign affairs.

To concretize the framework of security cooperation, the two countries have also decided to form mechanisms like strategic dialogue at Foreign Minister level and secretary level.

In the field of defense, there will be regular military to military talks and Navy to navy talks. A defence policy dialogue will also be organized and both countries have also agreed to conduct bilateral and multilateral exercises.

The Indian National Security Adviser will also hold regular meetings with his Japanese counterpart.

India and Japan have also decided under this agreement to develop financial intelligence units and to develop a tsunami disaster map in India.

The Prime Ministers' of both countries will assess the progress made in this regard from time to time. By Naveen kapoor

ANI