Japan has proposed expanding the scope of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad) by holding a defence ministers' meeting in India. The suggestion was made by Japan's defence minister, Shinjiro Koizumi, during the 23rd IISS Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore on Sunday.
Japan's Push for Enhanced Defence Cooperation
Koizumi emphasized the importance of strengthening defence collaboration among Quad members—the United States, India, Japan, and Australia. He noted that while foreign ministers regularly meet under the Quad framework, defence ministers should also engage in dialogue to take cooperation to the next level.
“Recently, our foreign minister visited India for Quad. It would be great if we can have that (meet) for defence ministers. Defence cooperation could be an area in which we work together…it would be great to visit India to have that kind of dialogue. I want to energise Quad to the next step,” Koizumi said in response to a query.
Quad's Role and China's Concerns
The Quad is a strategic grouping focused on promoting a free, open, inclusive, and resilient Indo-Pacific region. Unlike NATO, it is not a binding military alliance but emphasizes economic cooperation, technology, and regional security. However, China has criticized the Quad as an “Asian NATO” and a Cold War-era clique designed to contain its growth.
Japan's proposal is likely to further upset Beijing, which views the grouping as a challenge to its influence. During his address, Koizumi also took a veiled swipe at China, defending Japan's military buildup despite Beijing's accusations of “new militarism.”
“Think about it. There is a country that has a huge arsenal of nuclear weapons and strategic bombers. Japan has neither of such weapons. And yet, Japan is labelled (as) ‘new militarism’. Isn't it strange?” Koizumi said, without naming China.
