Exploring Japan’s Strategy for a Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP)

According to Prime Minister Kishida, the FOIP concept holds significant relevance in the face of a fragmenting international order. FOIP's goal is to foster cooperation within the global community, rather than fostering division and conflict.

• Prime Minister Kishida elaborated on the fundamental principles of FOIP, which are:
  • Upholding freedom and the rule of law
  • Respecting diversity and inclusion
  • Promoting inclusivity
  • Encouraging openness
• Prime Minister Kishida also emphasized FOIP’s focus on rule-making through dialogue, equal partnerships among nations, and a people-centric approach.
• The Prime Minister also announced the four pillars of FOIP, namely:
  • Principles for peace and rules for prosperity
  • Addressing challenges in an Indo-Pacific way
  • Multi-layered connectivity
  • Extending efforts for security and safe use of the sea to the air
• Principles for peace and rules for prosperity: This first pillar, the backbone of FOIP, calls for respect for territorial integrity and sovereignty, and firmly opposes any unilateral change of the status quo through the use of force.
• Addressing challenges in an Indo-Pacific way: The second pillar encourages increased cooperation to tackle global common challenges such as climate change, environmental issues, global health, cyberspace, and maintaining peace.
• Multi-layered connectivity: The third pillar, as explained by Japan’s PM, is crucial for cooperation and is seen as a significant enabler of economic growth. He pointed out that Japan's interests lie in three regions: the ASEAN region, South Asia with a particular emphasis on northeast India, and the Pacific Islands region.
• Extending efforts for security and safe use of the sea to the air: The fourth pillar aims to ensure maritime safety amidst growing geopolitical risks. Japan advocates for a peaceful resolution of disputes based on international law, rather than resorting to force or coercion.
• As part of the fourth pillar, Japan also plans to enhance the maritime law enforcement capabilities of various countries through human resource development, joint training with other nations' coast guards, and strengthening cooperation among coast guard agencies.
• Prime Minister Kishida asserted that India is an indispensable partner for realizing the objectives of FOIP. He noted that Japan’s FOIP concept aligns closely with India’s Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI).