Japan, Australia hold diplomatic, security talks

By Riyaz ul Khaliq

ANKARA (AA) - The top diplomats and defense chiefs of Japan and Australia on Thursday held joint talks, known as "2+2" talks, according to an official statement.

Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Richard Marles and Foreign Minister Penny Wong hosted their Japanese counterparts Minoru Kihara and Yoko Kamikawa in Queenscliff in the southeastern Australian state of Victoria.

The two sides are expected to elevate their defense ties.

Japan and Australia are allies of the US in the region and are part of the Washington-led loose security group Quad which also includes India.​​​​​​​