Joint Statements on China’s Activities
On 2023‑10‑18, 2024‑08‑18 and 2026‑08‑18 the governments of Japan and Australia released joint statements following defence‑minister meetings. The statements expressed serious concern about the situation in the East China Sea and the South China Sea, opposed unilateral actions that could destabilise the region, reaffirmed the importance of a rule‑of‑law based international order, and highlighted the necessity of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. They also condemned North Korea’s nuclear and missile development and its military cooperation with Russia.
Key Phrases from the Statements
- “China’s actions are a source of serious concern in the East China Sea and the South China Sea.”
- “We strongly oppose unilateral actions that jeopardise regional stability.”
- “We place importance on a rule‑of‑law based order and will respond firmly and calmly.”
Defence Minister Talks and Immediate Outcomes
Japanese Defence Minister Koizumi and Australian Defence Minister Marles met at the Japanese Ministry of Defence. They exchanged views on the radar illumination of a Japanese Self‑Defence Force aircraft on 2025‑12‑06 and agreed to strengthen defence cooperation by establishing a Strategic Coordination Framework (FSDC). In the joint press conference they declared a commitment to a rule‑of‑law based order and a firm, calm response.
Subsequent discussions led by Defence Minister Nakaya deepened deterrence cooperation, aiming to prevent changes to the status quo by force.
Specific Cooperation Arrangements
- Implementation of the Strategic Coordination Framework (FSDC) to advance defence collaboration to a level comparable with the US‑Japan alliance.
- Agreement to increase the sophistication of joint training between the Self‑Defence Forces and the Australian Defence Force.
- Signing of a mutual evacuation memorandum for emergencies that occur in third countries.
Chinese Provocation Cited
The statements referenced the 2025‑12‑06 radar illumination by the People’s Liberation Army as a concrete example of China’s provocative behaviour.
Regional Security Context
Japan and Australia identified China’s unilateral actions as detrimental to regional stability and expressed strong opposition. They positioned the peace and stability of the Taiwan Strait as an important issue for international security. The two governments also condemned North Korea’s nuclear and missile programmes and its military cooperation with Russia, and indicated that they will consider joint deterrence measures.
Strategic Implications of Japan‑Australia Cooperation
The enhanced defence partnership seeks to promote a free and open order in the Indo‑Pacific region. By advancing to a defence‑cooperation level next to the US‑Japan alliance, the partnership aims to contribute to that order.
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