Japan and Fiji have expressed concern over the growing militarization in the Asia-Pacific, warning that the rapid military buildup by some nations threatens regional peace and stability.
The issue was highlighted during talks between Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and Fijian Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka in Tokyo yesterday, where the two leaders signed the Japan–Fiji Lomavata Kizuna Partnership to strengthen bilateral and regional cooperation.
In a joint statement issued by Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, both leaders reaffirmed their shared commitment to maintaining “a peaceful, stable, and prosperous Asia-Pacific region,” and noted with concern “the rapid military buildup which is not conducive to this end.”
They called for “proactive, responsible, and transparent engagement to uphold regional peace and security,” emphasizing that cooperation and dialogue must take precedence over confrontation.
The leaders also underscored their support for a “free, open, and sustainable maritime order” based on the rule of law and in line with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
“They affirmed their strong opposition to any unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force or coercion,” the statement said — language reflecting growing regional unease over geopolitical tensions in the Indo-Pacific.
Prime Minister Takaichi said Japan and Fiji’s partnership reflected a shared vision for peace and security grounded in mutual respect and adherence to international law.
Prime Minister Rabuka echoed this sentiment, saying Fiji would continue to advocate for dialogue and transparency in regional security matters.
The two leaders also reaffirmed their commitment to the Pacific Islands Forum’s 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, emphasizing that regional unity remains essential in addressing both traditional and emerging security challenges.
Their joint declaration places Fiji alongside Japan and other like-minded partners calling for greater transparency, restraint, and cooperation to preserve peace in the Pacific.
