Tokyo, Sep 8: Terming energy and food security as pressing issues, Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar on Thursday said that “dialogue and diplomacy” were the way to addressing challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic and ongoing conflicts.
In opening remarks at the India-Japan 2+2 ministerial dialogue, Dr Jaishankar said: “We have witnessed in recent times very serious developments, especially since our last meeting in 2019. The Covid pandemic and ongoing conflicts demand that we address these new challenges. Energy and food security have emerged as particularly pressing issues.
“As we face these challenges, it is important we work collectively to find common solutions through the path of dialogue and diplomacy. In this overall context, our dialogue today holds special significance,” he added.
Highlighting the significance of India Japan 2+2 dialogue, the Minister said he was looking forward to the discussion which will lay the foundation for closer cooperation between India and Japan in the area of security and foreign affairs.
“Today’s meeting demonstrates our commitment towards deepening our bilateral security and defense cooperation and also demonstrating the strength of our Special Strategic and Global Partnership,” he said.
Dr Jaishankar, who reiterated condolences on the demise of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, said that India-Japan partnership was of immense importance.
“It is rooted in our shared values of democracy, freedom, and respect for rule of law. The strategic aspects of the relationship has gained new meaning in recent years, reflected in our recent bilateral and plurilateral engagements,” he said.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Jaishankar along with their Japanese counterparts are engaged in the 2+2 dialogue.
