Shinzo Abe became the first prime minister of Japan to visit Darwin since the northern Australian city was bombed by Japanese forces in World War II, as he and his Australian counterpart spoke Friday of strengthening defence and other ties between their countries.
Abe's one-night stay was described by Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison as a deeply symbolic one.
It was also another chance for Japan and Australia to present a united front as regional partners in the Asia-Pacific amid ongoing concerns of spreading Chinese influence, including the country's building of islands in the disputed South China Sea.
"Australia and Japan also stand united on the importance of resolving disputes in the South China Sea, peacefully and in accordance with international law, and we are strongly opposed to any actions that could increase tensions within the region," Morrison said., reading from a prepared statement after meeting Abe.
He added that a "stable and secure regional maritime ... order is central to both Australia and Japan's visions for the region, and is underpinned by respect for international law."
"It is at this very place where Prime Minister Morrison and I confirmed our commitment to further deepen this special strategic partnership between Japan and Australia, in pursuit of our common vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific."
Abe then stood solemnly with head bowed as an army bugler played "The Last Post."
"At the war memorial, I extended my condolences in honour of all the foreign soldiers, and renewed my vow towards peace."
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