Japanese Warships Visit New Zealand After Nearly 90 Years

Wellington, Aug 8 (AP) Japanese warships made a significant return to New Zealand's capital on Friday, marking their first visit in nearly 90 years. This event is part of Tokyo's ongoing efforts to strengthen strategic ties in the South Pacific Ocean.

Accompanied by the New Zealand navy ship HMNZS Canterbury, two Japanese destroyers, JS Ise and JS Suzunami, carrying over 500 crew members, entered Wellington harbor. These vessels arrived from Sydney as part of an Indo-Pacific deployment after Japan's military participated in war games alongside New Zealand, Australia, and other nations.

This visit to Wellington was largely ceremonial. However, it underscores Japan's intent to enhance bilateral military cooperation in response to regional tensions, especially considering that Japan’s only treaty ally is the United States.

Japan's envoy to Wellington, Makoto Osawa, commented on the growing cooperative work with New Zealand, Australia, and various Pacific Island countries. "Our main goal is the free and open Indo-Pacific," he stated. His remarks came in the wake of Australia’s recent announcement that Mitsubishi Heavy Industries of Japan won the contract to build Australian warships, surpassing a German competitor. This agreement is considered the most substantial defense industry partnership between Japan and Australia.

In tandem, New Zealand has been working to enhance its strategic and military interactions in Asia, pivoting its foreign policy to focus on Pacific cooperation and security. As of July, Wellington officials announced the commencement of work on a defense logistics agreement with Japan, aimed at facilitating military cooperation between the two nations.

Although Japanese naval visits as far south as New Zealand are rare, the areas encompassing New Zealand, Australia, and smaller Pacific Island countries have become increasingly contested by major global powers. This has spurred a competitive drive for influence between Beijing and Western nations.

New Zealand has found itself part of complex regional security discussions. A notable incident in February involved live firing exercises by Chinese naval frigates in the Tasman Sea, causing regional alarm and flight diversions at short notice.

The last time a Japanese naval vessel visited Wellington was in 1936, according to New Zealand's military. A Japanese ship had more recently visited Auckland in 2016. (AP) GSP

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