The government of Shinzo Abe recently announced record increases in military spending, citing China’s continued claim over disputed territories in the South China Sea and North Korea’s undeterred missile threats and tests.
Japan said regional cooperation was vital to better protect the rule of law in the region.
Pyongyang has been ramping up its war rhetoric, coinciding with increased incidences of missile tests, coupled with escalated threats to the United States and neighboring South Korea.
The new partnership will also focus on enhancing responsiveness to natural disasters and piracy, local media report .
The initiative is expected to become operational in April and will also convene security forums to discuss strategy.
