Japanese army chief’s visit to boost defence cooperation

By IANS
Monday, February 14, 2011

NEW DELHI - Japanese Ground Self-Defence Forces Chief of Staff General Yoshifumi Hibako arrived here Monday on a three-day visit during which he will discuss regional security issues, including terrorism, with the top brass of the Indian security establishment.

He will also explore ways to enhance the military-to-military ties between the two countries.

During his stay in the capital, General Yoshifumi Hibako will interact with Indian Army Chief General V.K. Singh and the other services chiefs and also meet with Defence Minister A.K. Antony.

“The visit is expected to further boost the defence cooperation between the two nations. During his visit, the Japanese general is scheduled to interact with senior officials of Indian armed forces and the defence ministry and discuss issues to enhance military cooperation,” an army spokesperson said here.

India and Japan share a global vision of peace and stability. A road map for developing cooperation in the defence and security areas was agreed to in the form of a joint statement during then defence minister Pranab Mukherjees visit to Japan in 2006.

A Defence Policy Dialogue has been established between the two countries and military-to-military talks have also been institutionalised.

“Both the nations are committed to build on their strategic convergences and strengthen defence cooperation in mutually identified fields,” the spokesperson said.

“This visit will further cement the historic ties between India and Japan, especially the military-to-military contacts, which are based on mutual trust and understanding,” he added.

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