India, Japan hold first maritime affairs dialogue

NEW DELHI: Maritime security including non- traditional threats and cooperation in shipping were among key issues discussed during the first India-Japan Maritime Affairs Dialogue held here.

"Issues of mutual interest were discussed, inter alia, maritime security including non-traditional threats, cooperation in shipping, marine sciences and technology, marine biodiversity and cooperation at various multilateral forums," Ministry of External Affairs said.

While the Indian delegation was led by D B Venkatesh Varma, Joint Secretary (Disarmament and International Security Affairs), in the MEA, the Japanese delegation was headed by Kazuyuki Yamazaki, Deputy Director General (Ambassador), Foreign Policy Bureau, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan.

Representatives of various Ministries participated from both sides in the meeting held on Tuesday.

The India-Japan maritime dialogue was decided during a meeting of their foreign ministers last April.