Japan and New Zealand have agreed in principle on an intelligence-sharing pact, citing concerns about the security environment in the region, particularly with the increasing ties between Russia and North Korea. Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and New Zealand counterpart Christopher Luxon expressed their worries over rising tensions in the South China Sea, where China’s assertiveness in territorial claims has been a growing issue.
The agreement includes information security principles to allow the sharing of classified information between the two countries. Additionally, talks are underway to sign a pact that would enable the forces of Japan and New Zealand to share logistical support and supplies during bilateral training and operations.
Japan’s national security strategy has prioritized military development and defense partnerships to address threats from China, North Korea, and Russia. Both leaders strongly condemned the growing military cooperation between North Korea and Russia, particularly the North’s shipment of ballistic missiles to Russia for use against Ukraine.
During a joint news conference, Luxon emphasized the importance of addressing regional issues in Japan’s neighborhood, specifically highlighting discussions on Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to Pyongyang and North Korea’s role in supporting Russia’s actions in Ukraine. Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un recently signed an agreement pledging mutual aid in the face of aggression, raising concerns about a possible arms deal between the two countries that could enhance the threat posed by North Korea’s nuclear weapons and missile program.
Japan has existing intelligence agreements with countries such as the United States, Australia, Britain, India, South Korea, and NATO. Negotiations for a similar agreement with Canada are ongoing, and discussions with Ukraine have also been initiated.
The visit by President Putin to North Korea, the first in 24 years, comes at a time when tensions are escalating with Western countries over Russia’s involvement in Ukraine. Concerns have been raised regarding a potential arms deal between North Korea and Russia that could further destabilize the region.
Overall, the agreement between Japan and New Zealand reflects their commitment to addressing regional security challenges and enhancing cooperation in the face of emerging threats. The intelligence-sharing pact and discussions on mutual support during operations demonstrate a shared commitment to strengthening security in the Asia-Pacific region.
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https://www.pbs.org/newshour/amp/world/russia-and-north-korea-ties-prompt-japan-and-new-zealand-intel-sharing-pact
