Reciprocal Provision of Supplies and Services Agreement has been signed by India and which of the following countries?

The correct answer is Japan.

Key Points

• The Reciprocal Provision of Supplies and Services Agreement (RPSS) was signed between India and Japan to enhance their military logistics cooperation.
• The agreement was signed on September 9, 2020, as part of efforts to strengthen defense ties between the two nations.
• It allows both countries to exchange supplies and services, such as food, fuel, and spare parts, during joint exercises and humanitarian assistance missions.
• This agreement is similar to logistics pacts India has signed with countries like the US, Australia, and France, aimed at boosting strategic interoperability.
• The RPSS agreement is a step toward enhancing cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region, where both countries share common strategic interests.

Additional Information

• India-Japan Defense Cooperation:
  • India and Japan conduct joint military exercises, including the Dharma Guardian (Army exercise) and JIMEX (Naval exercise).
  • Both nations are part of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad) along with the US and Australia, focusing on a free and open Indo-Pacific.
  • The two countries have signed agreements like the Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement (ACSA) to bolster military logistics sharing.
• Indo-Pacific Strategy:
  • The Indo-Pacific is a geopolitical region comprising the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean.
  • India and Japan emphasize the importance of a free, open, and rules-based Indo-Pacific for regional stability.
  • Both nations are collaborating on initiatives like the Asia-Africa Growth Corridor (AAGC) to counter China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
• Similar Agreements India Has Signed:
  • Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA): Signed with the US in 2016.
  • Mutual Logistics Support Agreement (MLSA): Signed with Australia in 2020.
  • India-France Logistics Agreement: Signed in 2018 to enhance naval cooperation.
• Significance of RPSS:
  • Enhances operational readiness and interoperability between Indian and Japanese forces.
  • Strengthens bilateral ties and contributes to regional security in the Indo-Pacific.
  • Facilitates disaster relief and humanitarian assistance operations between the two nations.