(Press Release：Provisional Translation)
May 30, 2026
Ministry of Defense Japan
On 30 May 2026, Defense Minister Koizumi, visiting Singapore to attend the 23rd IISS Asia Security Summit (Shangri-La Dialogue), held the Japan-New Zealand Defense Ministerial Meeting with New Zealand Defense Minister the Hon Chris Penk.
- The Ministers welcomed progress in strengthening the institutional foundations of defense cooperation between the two countries, including the entry into force of the Information Security Agreement in March this year and the signing of the ACSA last December.
- Minister Koizumi welcomed the Government of New Zealand’s announcement that the upgraded Mogami-class frigate has been announced as one of the candidates for the replacement of the ANZAC-class frigates and conveyed Japan’s intention to continue close coordination, including through the provision of information. Minister Penk explained that New Zealand’s consideration of a replacement frigate is in the early phases and advice on a preferred ship is expected to be provided to the New Zealand Cabinet before the end of 2027.
- The Ministers confirmed their intention to continue working closely together to strengthen cooperation with Pacific Island countries. Ministers welcomed discussions held at the 2026 Japan-Pacific Islands Defense Forum (JPIDD) and the 2025 South Pacific Defence Ministers’ Meeting (SPDMM).
- The Ministers noted that interoperability was enhanced through the joint exercise conducted this month between the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force and the Royal New Zealand Navy, and concurred to continue close coordination to further deepen defense cooperation between the two countries through similar exercises in the future.