India-Japan Maritime Affairs Dialogue 2025: A Step Towards Stronger Maritime Security and Indo-Pacific Cooperation

The Indian delegation was led by Ms Muanpuii Saiawi, Joint Secretary (D&ISA), MEA and the Japan delegation by Mr. KASHIWABARA Yutaka, Deputy DG, Asian and Oceanian Affairs Bureau,MOFA

Tokyo April 2, 2025

Japan, played host to the 7th India-Japan Maritime Affairs Dialogue, marking yet another significant chapter in the evolving strategic partnership between these two nations. This high-level discussion centered around maritime security, regional stability, and collaborative efforts in the Indo-Pacific region, highlighting the critical need for a Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP).

High-Level Participation in India-Japan Maritime Talks

Leading the Indian delegation was Ms. Muanpuii Saiawi, Joint Secretary for Disarmament & International Security Affairs at the Ministry of External Affairs. On the Japanese side, Mr. Kashiwabara Yutaka, Deputy Director-General of the Southeast and Southwest Asian Affairs Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, took the helm. The presence of such senior officials underscores just how vital India-Japan maritime cooperation is.

Key Topics Discussed at the India-Japan Maritime Dialogue 2025

The discussions during the India-Japan maritime meeting touched on several key issues that are essential for both regional security and economic growth.

1. Strengthening Maritime Security

- India and Japan placed a strong emphasis on boosting security cooperation to address threats like piracy, illegal fishing, maritime terrorism, and smuggling.

- Both countries reaffirmed their dedication to upholding international maritime law and ensuring safe navigation throughout the Indo-Pacific region.

2. Freedom of Navigation and International Maritime Law

- The importance of freedom of navigation, unobstructed trade routes, and resolving maritime disputes in accordance with international law was a focal point for both sides.

- Japan and India also stressed the necessity of countering coercive maritime actions.

3. Expansion of Joint Naval Exercises

- The progress of the Japan-India Maritime Exercise (JIMEX) was reviewed, with conversations about increasing the frequency and complexity of these joint drills.

- There was a strong focus on enhancing interoperability between the Indian Navy and the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force.

Maritime Law Enforcement & Blue Economy Collaboration

Both nations agreed to boost their cooperation in maritime law enforcement, particularly targeting illegal fishing, protecting the environment, and responding to disasters. They also talked about potential joint ventures in marine technology, sustainable fisheries, and ocean conservation.

Technological Collaboration for Naval Advancements

India and Japan delved into technological advancements in shipbuilding, cybersecurity, and maritime surveillance to strengthen their naval capabilities. They discussed the implementation of AI-powered maritime monitoring systems and improvements in coastal security.

Regional & Multilateral Cooperation in the Indo-Pacific

Recognizing the importance of stronger collaboration with regional partners like ASEAN nations, the United States, and Australia, India and Japan emphasized the significance of coordinating through the Quad (Quadrilateral Security Dialogue) for regional maritime security. Japan also reaffirmed its commitment to supporting India’s maritime infrastructure projects in the Indian Ocean region, which further solidifies their Indo-Pacific strategy.

India-Japan Maritime Partnership: Future Prospects

The 7th India-Japan Maritime Affairs Dialogue wrapped up with a commitment to regular consultations, expanded naval collaborations, and joint strategic initiatives. This dialogue strengthens the India-Japan strategic alliance and their shared vision for a rules-based maritime order, regional economic prosperity, and peace in the Indo-Pacific. As geopolitical challenges in the region continue to evolve, the partnership between India and Japan will be vital in ensuring stability, security, and economic growth in maritime affairs.

Conclusion

The India-Japan Maritime Dialogue 2025 showcases the deepening bilateral maritime relations between these two nations. With a focus on technological advancements, regional security, and more, the future looks promising for their collaboration.