The Philippines and Japan formalized closer defense cooperation on Thursday with the signing of two agreements in Manila, including a reciprocal provision of supplies and services between their armed forces. The move is widely seen as a strategic effort to bolster regional security in the face of China's increasing assertiveness in the South China Sea.
Philippine Foreign Secretary Theresa Lazaro and Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi formalized the agreements, marking a significant step in the evolving security relationship between the two nations. The pacts will streamline logistical cooperation, enabling smoother joint exercises and humanitarian assistance operations.
The agreement comes amid escalating tensions in the South China Sea, where the Philippines and China have been locked in territorial disputes. Beijing claims almost the entire sea, a claim invalidated by an international court ruling in 2016. Recent incidents, including accusations of Chinese vessels ramming and damaging Philippine boats, have further strained relations.
Japan, while not a claimant in the South China Sea, has consistently voiced concerns over China's growing military presence in the region, emphasizing the importance of freedom of navigation and adherence to international law. Tokyo has been actively strengthening security ties with Southeast Asian nations, including the Philippines, Vietnam, and Indonesia.
The deepening security partnership between Japan and the Philippines also aligns with the broader strategic interests of the United States in the Indo-Pacific region. Washington has been encouraging its allies and partners to enhance their defense capabilities and work together to maintain a balance of power in the face of China's rise. Japan has previously supplied patrol boats and radio equipment to the Philippines, further solidifying their defense cooperation. The new agreements are expected to facilitate even greater interoperability and coordination between the two countries' armed forces.
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