PM backs Japanese military bid

Australia will back Japan's bid to become more militarily active, Prime Minister Tony Abbott has told his Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe.

The two leaders met yesterday on the sidelines of the East Asia Summit in Brunei, where North Korea and China's claims to most of the oil and gas rich South China Sea is likely to be discussed.

Under Japan's post-World War II pacifist Constitution - imposed by the US - Japan cannot use force except under a narrow definition of self-defence.

Mr Abe wants Japan to adopt a more active security role, and improve its ability to defend itself against North Korea.

At the United Nations last month, he said that while China had been increasing its military spending 10 per cent annually, Japan's defence spend increased just 0.8 per cent.

In what was described as a very warm meeting, Mr Abbott told Mr Abe that Japan was Australia's closest friend in Asia. The leaders expressed strong support for the US re-balance to Asia.

It is understood Mr Abbott welcomed Mr Abe's determination for Japan to increase its contribution to international peace and security.

In this context, Mr Abbott said that while it was important to acknowledge history, the time had come for Japan to be a normal country, operating under the same rules as other countries.

Mr Abbott accepted an invitation to visit Japan in the first half of next year and the Prime Minister said he would bring a delegation, which would include members of business, government, science, academe and culture.

He accepted a similar offer from Chinese President Xi Jinping on Sunday.

The Australian and Japanese leaders committed to progressing negotiations on a free trade agreement, and deepening defence and security cooperation.

Mr Abbott also met the South Korean and Philippine leaders.

He meets his Indian and Vietnamese counterparts today.