South Korea’s Defence Minister Ahn Gyu-back has traveled to Japan to meet with Japanese Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi. The purpose of the talks is to discuss regional security issues and enhance defense cooperation between the two countries. The meeting is scheduled to take place at the Yokosuka base of Japan’s Maritime Self-Defence Force.
Ahn departed from Incheon International Airport for Yokosuka, where the US 7th Fleet is stationed. The defence chiefs are expected to address the security situation in the region and explore opportunities for bilateral defense cooperation. The discussions will also focus on strengthening defense ties, including information sharing for humanitarian purposes.
During the visit, the two ministers are likely to emphasize the importance of cooperation in addressing threats posed by North Korea’s missile and nuclear programs. The meeting comes in the wake of North Korea’s recent ballistic missile launches towards the Sea of Japan, prompting strong condemnation from Japan.
Chung Binna, a spokesperson for South Korea’s Defence Ministry, mentioned that the two countries are looking to enhance defense collaboration, including activities such as the refueling of South Korean Air Force aircraft by Japan’s air self-defence forces. However, the possibility of a mutual logistics support agreement between South Korea and Japan is not on the agenda for the current ministerial talks.
