Terming Japan as a partner, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said that at a time of global uncertainties, change and challenges, India and Japan are "natural and indispensable partners for advancing prosperity in our two countries and for a peaceful, stable, cooperative and prosperous future for the Asia-Pacific and Indian Ocean regions".
This was also reflected in the joint statement that was issued after the meeting between Singh and his Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe.
The two leaders noted ongoing bilateral exchanges on maritime security including counter-piracy activities, participation in bilateral and multilateral exercises as well as sharing of information, "and in this context, welcomed the joint exercises between the Coast Guards of India and Japan held off Chennai in January 2012 and in Tokyo Bay in November 2012".
"They expressed their expectations to further promote bilateral and multilateral cooperation on maritime issues," the statement said.
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The remarks came amidst flexing of muscles by China in the South China Sea and East China Sea.
China has in the recent past used its naval ships and aircraft to intimidate neighbouring countries including Japan which are in dispute with Beijing over maritime rights.
Piqued over Japan's warm ties with India, an influential Chinese daily had yesterday said New Delhi's wisdom lies in dealing with its disputes with Beijing calmly undisturbed by "internal and international provocateurs".