Tokyo - The defence ministers of Japan and Australia on Thursday signed an agreement on deepening diplomatic and security cooperation after talks between the foreign and defence ministers of both countries.

In the so-called "two-plus-two" meetings, Australia and Japan aim at transforming their relationship from a trade-oriented one to a comprehensive security partnership, officials said.

The new scheme foresees expanding joint military exercises and intensifying cooperation within United Nations missions, preventing nuclear proliferation and disaster prevention and relief.

Biliateral relations took a hit after the Labour Party of Prime Minister Kevin Rudd took over power from conservative John Howard in November 2007 because of Rudd's tough line against Japanese whaling.

Some observers regard the now growing ties between Japan and Australia as the beginning of a strategic alliance as a reaction to the increasing importance of China. (dpa)