Japan, NATO discuss secret communications system ahead of summit

The Japanese government and NATO leadership are currently engaged in discussions to establish a closed communications system dedicated to exchanging classified information and facilitating confidential negotiations in a move aimed at deepening security cooperation.

The talks come as Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida prepares to attend the NATO summit scheduled to take place in Washington from July 9 to 11, Caliber.Az reports citing the foreign media.

NATO member states currently utilize a secure communications infrastructure designed for the secure exchange of classified data. As a NATO permanent partner, Japan is set to be partially integrated into this established system, pending a preliminary agreement anticipated during the upcoming summit.

The collaboration between Tokyo and NATO has been steadily expanding, underscored by a comprehensive cooperation agreement signed in 2023 that spans 16 key areas including cybersecurity, space operations, and information exchange. Japan maintains a permanent mission at NATO headquarters in Brussels, underscoring its commitment to enhancing bilateral and multilateral ties with the alliance.

The proposed closed communications system represents a significant stride in enhancing Japan's strategic alignment with NATO, aiming to bolster capabilities in information security and operational coordination. This initiative is expected to enhance resilience against evolving threats and contribute to broader efforts in global security and defense cooperation.

The outcome of discussions at the NATO summit is expected to pave the way for closer collaboration between Japan and NATO member states, reinforcing mutual commitments to regional and global security amidst a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape.