Arab News Japan

TOKYO: The first telephone call of the Hotline between Japan-China Defense Authorities was made on May 16 between the Japanese and Chinese Defense Ministers and lasted approximately 20 minutes, the Defense Ministry in Tokyo said.

Defense Minister HAMADA Yasukazu held the first telephone conversation with his Chinese counterpart Li Shang Fu through the “Hotline” they established on March 31.

“Both sides welcomed the start of the operational use of the hotline and confirmed that the Maritime and Aerial Communication Mechanism between the Japan-China Defense Authorities, which includes the hotline, plays an important role in fostering trust between Japanese and Chinese defense authorities as well as avoiding contingencies,” the ministry said.

The ministers also confirmed that the hotline will be operated appropriately and reliably.

Defense Minister Hamada mentioned security concerns between Japan and China, such as the situation in the East China Sea, and stated that it is necessary to have candid communication, especially when there are concerns about Japan-China relations.

Both sides agreed to continue communication between the defense authorities of Japan and China, according to the ministry.