17 Jan
The Japanese and Indian coast guards held a joint drill in the Indian Ocean on Thursday amid an increasing need to secure safety in the key sea lane for Japan.
Six vessels from both countries, including the Japanese patrol ship Echigo, took part in the 18th drill of its kind in waters off Chennai, southern India.
Recent tensions in the Middle East have raised concerns over the safety of the key water route for energy transportation from the Middle East to Asia.
Takahiro Okushima, the Commandant of the Japan Coast Guard, called the sea lane a lifeline for Japan. He said the partnership with India is significant for the Japanese economy and people.
India apparently hopes that the bilateral cooperation will pressure China, which has been stepping up maritime activities in the Indian Ocean.
The Indian Coast Guard's Director General, Krishnaswamy Natarajan, said that no country is allowed to conduct unlawful activities in the waters.
NHK
