Image Credit: X account @DrSJaishankar
Jaishankar Strengthens Ties with Japan and Australia in Washington
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar recently held bilateral meetings with his counterparts from Japan and Australia in Washington, D.C., as part of efforts to strengthen India’s strategic partnerships with these key allies. The meetings focused on deepening cooperation in various sectors, including trade, defense, and technology, while addressing shared global and regional challenges.
Key Discussions with Japanese Counterpart
During his meeting with Japanese Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi, Jaishankar emphasized the robust relationship between India and Japan, which has witnessed steady growth in recent years. The two ministers discussed advancing collaboration in areas such as infrastructure, renewable energy, and digital technology.
Defense and security cooperation also featured prominently in the discussions, with both sides reiterating their commitment to a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific region. The ministers explored opportunities to expand joint military exercises and bolster defense technology transfers.
Jaishankar expressed India’s appreciation for Japan’s investments in infrastructure development, including projects like the Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train. Both leaders agreed on the importance of enhancing economic ties to drive mutual growth and deepen their strategic partnership.
Strengthening India-Australia Relations
In his meeting with Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong, Jaishankar underlined the strong bilateral relationship that has flourished under the India-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. The discussions focused on enhancing cooperation in critical minerals, renewable energy, and education.
Jaishankar and Wong also touched upon regional security concerns, particularly in the Indo-Pacific, emphasizing the need for coordinated efforts to maintain stability and counter emerging threats. Collaborative initiatives under the Quad framework were also reviewed, with both ministers reaffirming their commitment to a rules-based international order.
Shared Global Challenges
Both meetings reflected the growing convergence between India, Japan, and Australia on global issues such as climate change, supply chain resilience, and countering terrorism. Jaishankar highlighted the need for enhanced multilateral cooperation to address these challenges effectively.
The engagements underscore India’s proactive approach to deepening its ties with key allies and ensuring its active role in shaping the evolving global order. As the Indo-Pacific continues to gain strategic significance, India’s partnerships with Japan and Australia are expected to play a pivotal role in advancing regional stability and global cooperation.
