India, Japan Hold Third 2+2 Talks

India and Japan convened their third '2+2' ministerial meeting in New Delhi, focusing on strengthening their bilateral relationship amid rising Chinese influence in the Indo-Pacific. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasized the need for a 'free, open and rules-based Indo-Pacific' while discussing the evolution of their 'Special Strategic and Global Partnership'. Japanese Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa highlighted the shared responsibility of both nations for regional peace and prosperity, indicating a desire for collaborative solutions to global challenges. The meeting also aims to revise the 2008 joint declaration on security cooperation, paving the way for formal announcements at upcoming summits. Additionally, discussions are expected to touch on India's Quad summit proposal amid shifts in Japan's political landscape, particularly with Prime Minister Kishida facing domestic challenges. This dialogue signifies a strategic alignment as both nations navigate a complex geopolitical environment.