India and Japan have voiced strong opposition to "unilateral actions" that destabilize the South China Sea and reaffirmed their commitment to collaborative efforts in combating terrorism. This unified stance emerged during recent high-level discussions, highlighting the growing alignment of strategic interests between the two nations.

Both countries expressed "serious concern" regarding the situation in the East and South China Seas. They jointly reiterated their firm opposition to any unilateral actions that endanger safety, freedom of navigation and overflight, or attempts to alter the status quo through force or coercion. This concern extends to the militarization of disputed features, actions which both nations view as destabilizing the region. They emphasized that maritime disputes must be resolved peacefully in accordance with international law, particularly the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

The concerns stem from China's increasing assertiveness in the region, including its military presence on the Spratly Islands and the actions of its Coast Guard vessels around the Senkaku Islands. These actions have led to disputes with countries like the Philippines and Japan. India and Japan are committed to a free and open Indo-Pacific region, where all nations can operate without coercion.

Beyond maritime security, India and Japan are strengthening cooperation in various fields. A key focus is on bolstering economic security, including securing supply chains for critical goods and sectors such as telecommunications, pharmaceuticals, critical minerals, semiconductors, and clean energy. They have launched an India-Japan Economic Security Initiative and a Dialogue on Economic Security to further these goals.

In addition to economic cooperation, the two countries are also deepening their collaboration in the field of Artificial Intelligence (AI). The launch of a Japan-India AI Cooperation Initiative aims to foster collaboration on AI, including Large Language Models (LLMs), facilitate exchanges between industry and academia, support joint research projects, and promote the development of data centers in India.

Furthermore, defense and maritime security cooperation between India and Japan is on an upward trajectory. The two countries have held 2+2 meetings of their Foreign and Defence Ministers, and continue to conduct joint exercises between their respective services.

India and Japan also recognize the importance of regional groupings like the Quad (Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, which also includes the United States and Australia) in maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific. They view the Quad as a vital and enduring regional grouping and look forward to future Quad Leaders' Summits.

These collaborative efforts underscore the commitment of India and Japan to promoting a stable, secure, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region, grounded in international law and respect for the sovereignty of all nations.