Japan And India Partners In Quest For Peace: PM

Pointing out that Abe and he had a "rich agenda for discussion", Manmohan Singh said he was convinced that cooperation between "our defense and strategic communities will blossom further" under his (Abe's) leadership".

"Together, we seek a new architecture for the UN Security Council."

The prime minister suggested three areas of cooperation: strengthening regional mechanisms and forums, promoting wider and deeper regional economic integration, and enhancing regional connectivity and upholding the principles of freedom of navigation and unimpeded lawful commerce in accordance with international law.

"India's own deepening engagement in the region is informed by this vision. Our Look East engagement began with a strong economic emphasis, but it has become increasingly strategic in its content. Our political relations have intensified with all countries and groupings like ASEAN," he pointed out.

"Our relationship with Japan has been at the heart of our Look East Policy. Japan inspired Asia's surge to prosperity and it remains integral to Asia's future. The world has a huge stake in Japan's success in restoring the momentum of its growth."