Japan, Indonesia to hold “2-plus-2”” security talks

Japan plans to hold its first "two-plus-two" security talks with Indonesia on December 17 in Tokyo, reported the Kyodo News.

Japan plans to hold its first "two-plus-two" security talks with Indonesia on December 17 in Tokyo, reported the Kyodo News.

 Japanese Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida (R) and his Indonesian couterpart Retno Marsudi (Source:ensaindonesia.com)

The event will be attended by Japanese Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida, Defence Minister Gen Nakatani, Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi and Indonesian Defense Minister Ryamizard Ryacudu, who are expected to reaffirm the importance of upholding international law regarding the East Sea issue.

During the talks, the Japanese and Indonesian ministers will exchange opinions on upgrading the capabilities of the maritime forces of their countries.

The two sides will also likely to discuss signing a pact on the transfer of defence equipment and technology, and may take up Indonesia's interest to procure US-2 amphibious aircraft from Japan for maritime rescue operations.

If the event is arranged, it will be the first security talks between Japanese Ministers of Foreign Affairs and Defence and their counterparts in an ASEAN member nation.

Japan has held talks of this kind with five countries, including the US, the UK and Australia.