The notion of shared democratic values figured prominently in Singh’s address today in the Diet, the Japanese Parliament. “We are two major Asian countries who share the universally respected values of freedom, democracy, respect for fundamental human rights and commitment to the rule of law...We must draw on these common values ... And build a strong partnership of the highest mutual importance,” Singh said.

For Abe, the new emphasis on democratic values is part of a conscious effort to overcome the persistent negative legacy of Japanese imperialism and militarism in the region.

As Japan seeks to become a “democratic power”, India has every reason to draw closer to the new Tokyo. Unlike many Asian leaders who are suspicious of Tokyo’s plans to become a normal nation, Singh told the Diet today that Japan must play its “rightful and commensurate role in the emerging international order”.

“Strong ties between India and Japan will be a major factor in building an open and inclusive Asia and in enhancing peace and stability in the Asian region and beyond,” Singh added.

Since the tsunami disaster at the end of 2004, when the navies of India, the US, Australia and Japan worked together to provide relief to the region, the idea of quadrangular cooperation has gained ground among the Asian strategic communities.

However, neither Singh nor Abe want to lend a military colour to their discussion on cooperation among Asian democracies. Rather than dabble with the grandiose idea of an alliance among the region’s democracies, Singh and Abe are at best likely to focus on the potential for political consultation among these nations in promoting regional peace and stability.

... contd.