Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull held talks with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on Thursday, in a bid to strengthen security ties between the two countries. CGTN's Terrence Terashima has more.

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe makes another step, closer to his Indo-Pacific strategy, as he firms up security agreement with Australian Prime Minister Malcom Turnbull Japan views Australia as a "quasi-ally," serving as a security partner, amidst uncertainty over United States' commitment in Asia Pacific region. 

Japan and Australia reached a revised acquisition and cross-servicing agreement in 2017, which allows them to provide ammunition, water, food and other supplies to each other. The new visiting forces agreement will put the two countries closer, enable them to transport military equipment and ammunition onto each other's soil smoothly, which will enhance joint drills between Japan and Australia's Defense Forces.

Since Shinzo Abe took office, five years ago, he has expanded the scope of Japan's defense policies. Lifting arms export ban, broadening Self Defense Forces roles with a new security legislations. Securing all levels of defense pact. Alliance with U.S., and number of defense cooperation with Asian countries, such as the Philippines and India. This quasi alliance with Australia is of great importance in Abe's vision.

The two prime ministers discussed extensively on Transpacific Partnership Agreement. Turnbull said, during his address to business leaders in Tokyo, both leaders are hoping to seal the deal by March. There are still a number of issues, such as job security that has slowed the progress.

MALCOLM TURNBULL AUSTRALIAN PRIME MINISTER "Now our strong preference is for all 11 countries to join the first wave but our focus is on bringing a new TPP agreement into force as soon as possible with those who are ready to move. Importantly, we are consciously setting it up to enable and encourage the United States to dock in should it choose to do so in the future."

TERRENCE TERASHIMA TOKYO "Analysts say bilateral talks with Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull was important for Shinzo Abe. As he managed to secure support in both security and trade. The two vital pillars of Abe's strategy this year. However, there are also criticism that Abe also needs to improve relations with the neighboring China and South Korea. Terrence Terashima, CGTN, Tokyo.