Japan and Australia Boost Military Ties Amid Chinese Incursions

Japan and Australia agreed to enhance joint military training as their foreign and defense ministers raised concerns about China's increasing territorial incursions. The ministers discussed peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and greater security collaboration, including training exercises involving their air forces and marine units.

Japan and Australia have agreed to intensify joint military training exercises in response to mounting concerns over China's recent incursions into Japanese airspace and territorial waters.

High-ranking officials, including Japanese Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa, Defense Minister Minoru Kihara, Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong, and Defense Minister Richard Marles, convened in Queenscliff, Australia, to discuss security cooperation aimed at maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.

The ministers outlined plans for increased involvement in training exercises, notably the F-35A Lighting II stealth fighters' combat training and the upcoming Orient Shield exercise. China has urged that such cooperation should not target third countries, while Japan remains vigilant about Chinese and Russian air force activities around its territory.

(With inputs from agencies.)