Japan’s Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi and his German counterpart Boris Pistorius emphasized the need for stronger bilateral security cooperation on Sunday, including a proposed agreement to streamline joint military exercises.
Koizumi welcomed Pistorius to his hometown of Yokosuka, near Tokyo, for talks at a Maritime Self-Defense Force base, underscoring the robust alliance between the two nations.
“Coordination between allies like Japan and Germany has never been more critical,” Koizumi stated during a joint press event after their discussions.
Pistorius announced he had suggested a reciprocal access agreement, enabling easier troop activities across borders for both countries.
This push comes amid heightened security ties, fueled by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, which has linked Europe’s stability to the Indo-Pacific region’s security.
The ministers also addressed Middle East tensions and explored joint defense procurement opportunities. Koizumi noted their commitment to ongoing talks to safeguard regional stability.
In a pre-visit interview with Kyodo News, Pistorius highlighted his support for a new defense pact and raised alarms over Persian Gulf developments.