26 March 2013
Foreign Minister Bob Carr welcomed the Security of Information Agreement between Australia and Japan coming into force through an exchange of diplomatic notes in Canberra.
Senator Carr, who signed the Agreement in Tokyo on 17 May last year, said it will build on Australia’s comprehensive security, strategic and economic partnership with Japan.
“The Agreement will strengthen the legal framework for the exchange of classified information between Australia and Japan, ensuring the mutual protection of classified information,” Senator Carr said.
“This will allow practical cooperation with Japan through more timely information exchange.”
The Agreement is a key element of the security and defence cooperation agreed between Australia and Japan at the 2+2 Foreign and Defence Ministers’ Meeting in September 2012.
The conclusion of parliamentary processes in both countries means that information sharing under the agreement between Australia and Japan can now commence.
Australia already has 12 treaties relating to mutual protection of classified information in force including with the United States, France, New Zealand and the European Union.
