In a significant development aimed at strengthening military collaboration in the Indo-Pacific region, General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Army Staff, addressed the 3rd Land Forces Summit hosted virtually by the Japan Ground Self-Defence Force (JGSDF). In his remarks, General Dwivedi introduced the ‘IKIGAI’ Framework, a strategic initiative designed to enhance cooperation among land forces in the region.
Attended by Chiefs of Armies and senior military leaders from several key Indo-Pacific nations, including Japan, Australia, the United States, the Philippines, and Malaysia, the summit highlighted the increasing focus on multilateral military partnerships to address evolving security challenges. The gathering underscores the shared dedication of these nations to work together to ensure regional stability.
The IKIGAI Framework proposed by General Dwivedi serves as a comprehensive roadmap for collaboration among member countries. It aims to improve coordination, preparedness, trust, and collective capability to tackle both traditional and emerging security issues. The framework is structured around six essential pillars:
-
Interoperability and Information Sharing: This pillar aims to secure seamless communication and intelligence exchange among the forces.
-
Knowledge and Professional Military Education: Focused on fostering a shared understanding and leadership skills among personnel.
-
International Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR): Designed to coordinate efforts in responding to disasters and humanitarian crises.
-
Generative Technological Partnerships: This promotes innovation and the development of capabilities within the member nations.
-
Assurance for Security Partnerships: Aimed at building mutual confidence among the forces through consistent engagement.
- Integrated Logistics and Sustainment: This ensures operational endurance and effectiveness, critical during extended missions.
General Dwivedi emphasized three crucial pillars of convergence for effective multilateral engagement: Shared Diagnosis, Shared Principles, and Shared Actions. He articulated that these elements are essential for converting cooperation into actionable results.
Additionally, he remarked that the IKIGAI Framework encapsulates the collective commitment of Indo-Pacific nations to leverage their combined land power in pursuit of regional peace, stability, and prosperity, while also respecting national sovereignty and adhering to international law.
The Land Forces Summit serves as a vital multilateral platform facilitating Army-to-Army defense cooperation. Through interactions among senior leadership and structured dialogues, the summit reinforces collaborative strategies to address regional security challenges effectively.
