TOKYO — Japan will begin formal negotiations with the German government on an agreement that would let their armed forces exchange fuel and other supplies, easing the way for joint drills.
The Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement (ACSA) “is expected not only to contribute to Japan’s security, but also to help both Japan and Germany make a more active contribution to peace and security of the international community,” the Foreign Ministry said Friday.
Japan seeks an early conclusion to the negotiations, the ministry said.
Japan has signed similar agreements with other countries, including the U.S., Australia, France, the U.K. and India.
Japan and Germany are deepening security cooperation. Last year, their air forces conducted joint exercises in airspace around Japan for the first time.
Plans for discussing legal frameworks needed for such cooperation were confirmed last year at a two-plus-two meeting of foreign and defense chiefs from both countries.
