Japan, Oman seek to ensure maritime order amid China's naval assertiveness

Japan and Oman have vowed to work together to challenge what Japanese officials are calling “China’s growing naval assertiveness” in the Asia-Pacific region.

The countries made the agreement on Wednesday as Japanese Foreign Minister Taro Kono and his Omani counterpart, Yusuf bin Alawi bin Abdullah, met in the capital of the Middle East country.

During the talks, Kono said Japan intended to pursue a “free and open Indo-Pacific” region, encompassing Asia, the Middle East and Africa.

The plan has been described by Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe as an effort to realise maritime order based on the rule of law.

Oman is located near the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes for crude oil. Japan depends heavily on the region for oil imports.

Both countries are concerned about China’s increasing prominence in the area, and the possible effect that might have on their shipping routes.

Kono said after the talks that the Omani minister sought Japan’s involvement in Oman’s port and harbour development. He said the two were able to share an understanding over the strategic importance of port facilities.