The Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that the Japanese government decided at a cabinet meeting on the 8th that the “Reciprocal Access Agreement”, which will allow smoother exchanges between the Japanese Self-Defense Forces and the Australian military, will come into effect on the 13th. When troops enter the other country, they can carry weapons and the entry procedures will be simplified.
Japanese Defense Minister Yasuichi Hamada revealed the news at a press conference. He emphasized: “The agreement will be used flexibly as soon as possible to improve the interaction between the Japanese Self-Defense Forces and the Australian military and deepen defense cooperation.”
According to the agreement, when visiting each other’s country by special plane or ship, not only can the airport and port be used quickly, entry and exit visa procedures are exempted, and weapons and ammunition are allowed to be carried. Previously, each troop movement required cumbersome consultations.
Japanese Foreign Minister Hayashi Yoshimasa said Japan and Australia were “special strategic partners” sharing common values and strategic interests. Lin Fangzheng expects that the conclusion of the agreement will prompt Japan and Australia to further contribute to peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
The fact that Australia is the second country, after the United States, to conclude a similar agreement with Japan symbolizes the close relationship between the two countries.
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2023-08-09 14:41:10
