• Japanese PM made the announcement in a keynote speech at the Asia Security Summit, also known as the Shangri-La Dialogue, in Singapore

SINGAPORE: The Japanese government will draw up an action plan to ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific region by next spring, Prime Minister KISHIDA Fumio said Friday.

Kishida made the announcement in a keynote speech at the Asia Security Summit, also known as the Shangri-La Dialogue, which started in Singapore the same day.

He also announced a plan to provide patrol vessels to help Indo-Pacific nations better police their waters.

Kishida is the first Japanese prime minister to give a keynote speech at the summit since 2014, when then Prime Minister Shinzo Abe delivered such a speech.

In his speech, Kishida said that Russia’s invasion of Ukraine “undermines the foundation of the international order.”

While avoiding any direct reference to China, he said that unilateral attempts are going on to change the status quo in the East China Sea and that Japan is dealing with the situation with a resolute attitude.

Kishida also pointed to the importance of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.

Japan will implement the “Kishida vision for peace” and strengthen its roles in the international community, he said, promising to expand official development assistance, enhance support to strengthen maritime law enforcement and offer fresh assistance in the cybersecurity field.

Kishida reiterated that Japan will drastically bolster its defense capabilities within five years and secure a considerable increase in defense outlays.

He added that Japan will start negotiations with Singapore to conclude a defense equipment and technology transfer agreement.

Showing concern over North Korea’s possible nuclear test, Kishida stated that it is getting harder to realize a world without nuclear weapons and that Japan will take action to improve the situation.

Some countries are strengthening nuclear forces in a manner that lacks transparency, Kishida said, apparently with China in mind.

Working with other countries, Japan will support dialogue between the United States and China on arms control, he also said.

Kishida showed eagerness to lead discussions on measures to strengthen U.N. functions, including Security Council reform.

Referring to economic security, Kishida vowed to support action to strengthen supply chains.

JIJI Press