President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. expressed a strong belief in the potential for enhanced collaboration between the Philippines and Japan, focusing on defense, security, and economic sectors. This statement was made during a meeting with Japan’s National Security Adviser Akiba Takeo at Malacañan Palace on December 19, 2024. Marcos highlighted the importance of the growing partnership, stating, “I’m very optimistic about the continuing strengthening of our partnership, not only in terms of defense and security but also in the economic sphere.” He emphasized that the robust relationship between the two countries enhances their capacity to tackle regional and global challenges effectively. Marcos also pointed out the significance of ongoing defense cooperation, particularly in terms of interoperability and joint exercises in the South China Sea. He celebrated the recent ratification of the Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) by the Philippine Senate on December 16, which he believes will further operationalize military cooperation between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and Japan’s Self-Defense Forces. This agreement is notable as Japan’s first defense pact in Asia. Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru, via a message from Akiba, expressed joy over the advancements in bilateral cooperation, referencing key events such as the Japan-Philippines-US Summit in April, the Foreign and Defense Ministerial Meeting in July, and the Senate’s approval of the RAA. Ishiba underscored the natural partnership between Japan, the Philippines, and the US, all maritime nations linked by the Pacific Ocean, and their shared dedication to upholding the rule of law, maritime and economic security, and connectivity for peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
President Marcos Jr. Bullish on Deepening Philippines-Japan Ties in Defense and Economy
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