The 22nd High-Level Meeting between the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and the Japan Coast Guard (JCG) was held in New Delhi on January 14, 2026, underscoring the depth and continuity of maritime cooperation between the two countries. The meeting was co-chaired by Paramesh Sivamani, Director General, Indian Coast Guard, and Admiral Yoshio Saguchi, Commandant, Japan Coast Guard, who is on an official visit to India from January 13 to 17, 2026, leading a nine-member delegation.

The discussions enabled both sides to review the existing framework of bilateral cooperation and identify areas for strengthening operational engagement. Key focus areas included Maritime Search and Rescue (SAR), Marine Pollution Response (MPR), Maritime Law Enforcement (MLE), and capacity building. Both delegations highlighted the need to enhance interoperability, share best practices, and sustain structured engagements under the existing Memorandum of Cooperation between the two Coast Guards.

Cooperation in emerging and future-oriented domains such as technology adoption, information-sharing mechanisms, training programmes, and personnel exchanges also featured prominently. Both sides expressed satisfaction over the steady progress achieved since the previous high-level meeting and reiterated their commitment to maintaining regular interactions at multiple operational and strategic levels.

India’s ongoing Presidency of the Coast Guard Global Summit (CGGS), as well as its forthcoming hosting of the 5th CGGS and the International Coast Guard Fleet Review (ICGFR), formed an important part of the dialogue. In this context, the two Coast Guards explored opportunities for enhanced coordination and engagement in multilateral maritime forums. The JCG confirmed its participation in the ICGFR through the deployment of its ship and aircraft.

The meeting also took note of the India–Japan Joint Declaration issued in August 2025, reaffirming both nations’ commitment to a free, open, inclusive, and rules-based maritime order. As part of the visit programme, the JCG delegation will travel to Mumbai for industrial and professional interactions, including a joint marine pollution response exercise focusing on hazardous and noxious substances spill response.