MELBOURNE (Reuters] -Australia and Japan will sign a treaty that would strengthen defence and security cooperation in a virtual summit held on Thursday. It is the latest attempt to strengthen ties given China’s increasing military might and economic clout within the Indo-Pacific.

Scott Morrison, the Australian Prime Minister, announced that the leaders of the two nations will sign a Reciprocal Access Agreement. This agreement will provide a structure for cooperation between the defence forces of the two countries for the first-time.

“This treaty will be a statement of our two nations’ commitment to work together in meeting the shared strategic security challenges we face and to contribute to a secure and stable Indo-Pacific,” Morrison said in a statement on Wednesday.

This strengthened security relationship is a result of the efforts made by Australia, Japan, India, and Australia (known as the Quad) to address common concerns regarding China. These include its pressure on Taiwan and trade disputes.

China replied by saying bilateral treaties must promote regional trust and peace.

China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said, “It shouldn’t target or harm any other party interests,” when asked about this treaty.

Australia and Japan will also discuss ways to enhance government and business partnership on issues such as clean energy and critical technologies.

Morrison stated that “our cooperation also includes an expanding agenda of the Quad with India, the United States and our shared technology-led strategy to reduce carbon emissions.”

Japan’s highest government spokesperson said that “common, important issues will be discussed candidly” during the summit.

Hirokazu Matsuno, chief cabinet secretary, said to reporters that Japan-Australia relations will improve and that they are working towards a free Indo-Pacific.

Kishida stated Tuesday that he will forgo any overseas trips before Jan. 17, when the next session begins, in order to concentrate on anti-pandemic actions. Media reports claim that he previously had planned to go to Australia by himself.