Japanese PM Sanae Takaichi begins three‑day Canberra visit to deepen defence and critical‑minerals cooperation with Australia.
Japan and Australia aim to sign agreements on six commodity projects, notably nickel and rare earths, to reduce reliance on China.
Australia will purchase Japanese naval vessels in a multi‑billion‑dollar deal, expanding defence ties and future exports to India and New Zealand.
Japanese Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi will observe 1,400‑troop joint drills in the Philippines and South China Sea, signalling heightened security concerns.