German Defence MInister Pistorius launches Asia Tour to bolster defence partnerships

The trip will also take him to Singapore and Australia, as Berlin seeks closer coordination with "like-minded" countries in response to what Pistorius described as an erosion of the international order.

"The erosion of the international order requires us to coordinate even more closely with like-minded partners," Pistorius said at the start of the trip in Tokyo. He added that discussions would also cover developments in the Middle East.

Pistorius is accompanied by senior executives from major German defence companies, underscoring the focus on expanding industrial ties alongside military cooperation.

The German Defence Ministry said the talks would focus on the security of sea lanes, adherence to international law, and the region’s importance for global supply chains.

Pistorius is also expected to discuss the regional security situation, the expansion of strategic dialogue, and closer cooperation with the armed forces and defence industries of partner countries.

Germany has stepped up its military engagement in the Indo-Pacific in recent years.

Pistorius noted that the Bundeswehr has increased its presence in the region, including by expanding the number of liaison officers in regional bodies.