GANDHINAGAR, India — Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi have agreed to strengthen bilateral cooperation in a wide range of fields including security and economics — moves that aim to reinforce their countries' solidarity in dealing with China as it attempts to expand its clout in the Indian Ocean, East China Sea and South China Sea. "Strengthened Japan-India ties are the basis to underpin regional order,” Abe said at a joint press conference after their meeting in Gandhinagar on Thursday. Abe added that he is determined to work together with Modi to take the lead toward "peace and prosperity” in the Asia-Pacific region and the world.

Modi replied by emphasizing that Japan and India will cooperate not only bilaterally, but also work more closely when addressing international problems.

Both leaders completely agreed on applying maximum pressure on North Korea as it continues its nuclear and missile development programs. Their joint statement incorporated promises to cooperate on a diverse range of issues in the security and economic fields. Abe described the Japan-India relationship as entering "a new era” — a comment that left a lasting impression.

The rapport between the two leaders was obvious. As they shook hands at the signing ceremony for the joint statement, Modi praised Abe as an exceptional friend, while Abe returned the compliment by describing Modi as a "close friend” and an outstanding leader.

Cooperating in maritime security

In August 2016, Abe drew up a "Free and Open Indo-Pacific Strategy” that positioned the Asia-Pacific region as an area that respects freedom, the rule of law and the market economy. This has broad similarities with the Asia-centered Act East Policy trumpeted by Modi. The joint statement clearly said both prime ministers pledged to "align” these strategies.

Closer Japan-India cooperation comes against the backdrop of China’s maritime expansion.

Beijing is promoting a maritime strategy dubbed the "string of pearls” in which it supports establishing port facilities in nations including Pakistan and Sri Lanka — footholds that effectively surround India. Chinese military vessels and submarines have frequently made port calls at these facilities. This summer, China’s military started operations at a base established in Djibouti, its first overseas military installation. This development has put India on edge.

Japan, which is facing off with China in the East China Sea, is concerned about China’s military using the Indian Ocean. In the joint statement, Japan and India agreed it is in their interests to enhance cooperation in the maritime security field.

Shared concern over China

China’s "One Belt, One Road” initiative, a plan to create a massive economic sphere of influence, is a bone of contention between China and India. This is because operations that form a central pillar of the initiative are being planned for the Kashmir region, over which India and Pakistan both claim sovereignty.

Although Japan has shown a somewhat cooperative approach to the "One Belt, One Road” initiative as it seeks to improve ties with China, discussions on any concrete topics have yet to be held.

During the Abe-Modi meeting, both leaders agreed to cooperate to improve "connectivity in the wider Indo-Pacific region.” As well as giving a helpful nudge to economic development through the construction of transportation infrastructure, the leaders also aim to secure sea lanes for their nations’ vessels.

Japan also wants to work with India to jointly develop port facilities and special economic zones in Myanmar, Africa and elsewhere. India also is seeking Japanese assistance as it pours resources into establishing an economic corridor linking India, Iran and Afghanistan.

The Japan News