(Press Release)
June 1, 2025
Japan Ministry of Defense
On June 1, 2025, Defense Minister Nakatani, visiting Singapore to attend the 22nd IISS Asia Pacific Security Conference (Shangri-La Dialogue,) held a meeting with Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, Phumtham Wechayachai. The summary of the meeting is as follows:
- At the outset of the meeting, Minister Nakatani welcomed his opportunity to have a Defense Ministerial Meeting with Thailand’s Minister of Defence on a face-to-face basis for the first time in 6 years.
- The two Ministers discussed bilateral defense cooperation in broad terms, and particularly welcomed the advancement of unit-level exchanges such as JSDF’s participation every year in the multilateral exercise “Cobra Gold” held in Thailand. Minister Nakatani also stated his appreciation for Thailand hosting JSDF vessels and aircraft.
- The two also Ministers discussed the strengthening of Japan-ASEAN defense cooperation.