India and Japan held the 10th round of Consultations on Disarmament, Non-Proliferation and Export Control on 24 April 2024 in Tokyo. Both countries discussed several crucial matters related to disarmament and non-proliferation, such as nuclear, outer space security, chemical and biological domains, non-proliferation issues, export control, and conventional weapons. Ms. Muanpuii Saiawi, Joint Secretary of Disarmament and International Security Affairs, Ministry of External Affairs, India, led the Indian delegation. Mr. Katsuro Kitagawa, Director General for Disarmament, Non-proliferation and Science Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Japan, led the delegation.
Japan’s Efforts at Non-Proliferation and Disarmament
‘Disarmament’ refers to abolishing or reducing weaponry through international agreement. ‘Non-proliferation’ refers to the control of the spread of weapons and technologies related to weaponry. Japan’s constitution mandates that it work to bring peace and stability to the world. Japan’s diplomatic strength is its experience in leading the field of disarmament and non-proliferation. The country has played a pivotal role in furthering international efforts in the field. Japan has worked to strengthen the safeguards constituted by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), which is at the centre of nuclear non-proliferation. Japan also actively participates in the Proliferation Security Initiative (PSI), which helps prevent the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.
India-Japan Bilateral Relations
India and Japan have strong bilateral ties that have developed through the years. Set up in 1902, the Japan-India Association is the oldest international friendship body in Japan. There have been several high-level visits between the two countries. Japan and India have strengthened their cooperation in economics, education, commerce, science and technology, media, and culture. Both countries have a committed approach to defence cooperation. The Memorandum of Defence Cooperation and Exchanges and the Tokyo Declaration for India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership have significantly boosted defence ties between the two countries. Both countries’ Navy units interact annually and participate in joint exercises. Japan and India have proven their commitment to global stability and security through their ascending defence cooperation.
Previous Consultation Meeting
Japan and India regularly hold consultations on the issue of disarmament and non-proliferation. In 2021, they had the 9th round in virtual format. Some of the areas under discussion were chemical, nuclear, and biological disarmament and non-proliferation, outer space security, conventional weapons, and export control. Both countries emphasised the importance of enhancing mutual appreciation and understanding of disarmament and non-proliferation as per the India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership.
