Japan, Uae Ministers Discuss Maritime Security


Japan, UAE ministers discuss maritime security

Japanese Defense Minister Kishi Nobuo told his counterpart from the United Arab Emirates that Japan has serious concerns about China's new coast guard law, and they agreed on the importance of maintaining maritime order based on the rule of law.

Kishi spoke for about half an hour online on Wednesday with the UAE's Minister of State for Defence Affairs, Mohammed bin Ahmed Al Bawardi.

Kishi explained that Japanese Self-Defense Force activity in the Middle East has been extended to December of this year to ensure the safety of vessels linked to Japan.

The two ministers agreed to continue cooperation and to maintain close communication between defense authorities for peace and stability in the Middle East and safe navigation.

Kishi also conveyed Japan's serious concerns about China's new coast guard law, which authorizes the coast guard to use weapons in waters Beijing considers to be under its jurisdiction.

He said the legislation is problematic in terms of international law.