August 13, 2023
1 min read

Japan-Australia defence cooperation pact to take effect

Japan and Britain concluded an RAA in January this year, but London has yet to finish its domestic procedures for its implementation…reports Asian Lite News

In an effort to counter China’s expanding influence in the Indo-Pacific, the Japanese government announced that a pact with Australia that will enable joint exercises and improve security cooperation will go into force on Sunday, the Japan Times reported.

Similar to Tokyo’s current Status of Forces Agreement with the United States, the Japan-Australia Reciprocal Access Agreement will make it easier for Australian Defence Force and Japanese Self-Defense Force personnel to deploy more quickly.

The deal, signed in January 2022 as Japan’s first RAA, will also ease restrictions on the transportation of weapons and supplies for joint exercises and disaster relief operations, The Japan Times reported.

The move came after the Japanese parliament in April approved legislation for the pact, along with one with Britain, to complete its domestic approval processes.

Through the security agreements, Japan aims to boost security ties with the United States and other like-minded countries to enhance deterrence against Beijing, which has become more militarily assertive in the Indo-Pacific region, The Japan Times reported.

Agreeing to start talks on the RAA in 2014, Japan and Australia reached a broad agreement in November 2020. However, Japan’s adherence to the death penalty system delayed finalization, as Canberra, having abolished capital punishment, urges other countries to do the same.

An appendix to the accord allows Australia the discretion to refuse the transfer of its soldiers accused of crimes in Japan, thereby preventing potential death sentences, The Japan Times reported.

Japan and Britain concluded an RAA in January this year, but London has yet to finish its domestic procedures for its implementation. (ANI)

ALSO READ-Taiwan situation tilting toward emergency, says ex-Japan PM  

Previous Story

Matildas make magical run to semifinals in FIFA Women’s World Cup

Next Story

China condemns Taiwan Vice-President’s transit stop in US

Latest from -Top News

China Says US Tariff Hikes Violate WTO Rules

China is among the hardest-hit, facing a 34 per cent levy—part of what Washington describes as reciprocal measures aimed at rebalancing trade deficits and curbing unfair trade practices China has strongly condemned

Modi Due in Sri Lanka to Cement Ties

Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Santosh Jha described the visit to island nation as “very important” and likely will set a fresh agenda for bilateral cooperation Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit

India Acts as ‘First Responder’ in Myanmar: Jaishankar

Jaishankar took the opportunity to underscore India’s swift humanitarian response, highlighting Operation Brahma, which was launched to assist those affected by the earthquake. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Thursday expressed India’s
Go toTop

Don't Miss

India, Japan Review Progress in Cybersecurity & ICTs

It was the fifth edition of Cyber Dialogue and India

Australia to end migrant worker exploitation

Employers who are found to have exploited migrants will be