US EditionJapan and Australia Agree to Deepen Cooperation on Energy, Defense and Critical Minerals
The deal expands cooperation on fuel, critical minerals and defence as both countries seek to reduce exposure to Middle East supply shocks.
- Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi arrived in Canberra late Sunday for a three-day visit, meeting Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Monday to strengthen defense and economic security ties.
- Marking the 50th anniversary of the Nara Treaty, the trip focuses on bolstering economic security by shoring up energy supplies and partnering on critical minerals to minimize risks of economic coercion by China.
- Amid AUKUS funding concerns, analysts advise Australia to explore a 'Plan B' by leasing Japanese submarines, while Canberra recently chose Mitsubishi Heavy Industries to supply frigates for $10 billion.
- Warning of a potential regional power vacuum, former Ambassador Shingo Yamagami urged leaders to 'speak with one voice' as the U.S. administration remains focused on the war with Iran.
- As regional security becomes 'increasingly severe,' both Japan and Australia pursue multilayered cooperation to counter growing uncertainty and maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
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84 Articles
New Defence Pact Strengthens Australia–Japan Military Interoperability, Defence Industry Ties
Australia and Japan have signed an upgraded defence pact aimed at strengthening the two nations’ defence capabilities. The joint agreement focuses on closer integration between the Australia’s and Japan’s defence forces, including greater intelligence sharing, joint development and maintenance of defence technology, expanded training exercises and cooperation on supply chains and maritime security. The announcement was made on May 4, as Prime Mi…
The Japanese Prime Minister classified the conversations as "highly productive". The Australian counterpart frisa who seek to promote an Indo-Pacific "free, open and stable".
New agreement signed between Australia and Japan | Evening News Bulletin 4 May 2026
** Australia and Japan strike a new agreement to deepen security and economic ties... ** A tanker hit by projectiles in the Strait of Hormuz as tensions escalate... And in sport, ** Daria Kasatkina wins first title as an Australian citizen.
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