Philippines and Japan agree to deepen defense alliance against China – Observer

The ministers of defense of the Philippines and Japan, Gilberto Teodoro and Gen Nakatani, agreed on Monday, to deepen cooperation in the face of the growing assertiveness of China, with which the two countries have territorial disputes.

“The safety environment around us is becoming increasingly complex and the two countries, as strategic partners, are necessary to reinforce their defense cooperation,” Nakatani told Manila, in a joint statement to the bodies of social communication, after the meeting.

Although both defense chiefs avoided specifically mentioning Beijing, Theodore said, in a speech before the meeting, the “unilateral attempts of China and other countries to alter international order and narrative”.

Natani stated that three specific areas were identified to deepen the ties ofa.

The Philippines and Japan will reinforce its operational cooperation through “strategic dialogues” High level and greater information sharing, boosting exchange programs between people and, finally, increasing acquisitions in the defense sector.

Nakatani, who is in the Philippines on an official visit, should also meet this Monday with the president of the country, Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

On Sunday, Japanese minister visited two fundamental Filipine Military Bases to counteract Beijing Territorial claims in the Southern Sea of ​​China, including Basa Air Base, one of nine to which United States troops have access to a bilateral agreement.

Manila maintains a conflict with Beijing regarding the sovereignty of various atroes in the Southern Sea of ​​China, where tensions have been increasing in recent years, accompanied by clashes between coastal guards and mutual accusations.

Japan and China are also in disagreement with the control of the Senkaku Islands in the East China Sea.

Japan and Philippines have reached a military cooperation agreement in July, which will allow the cross -detachment of troops in their territories. The pact was approved by the Filipino Senate in December.

Both defense ministers also expressed this Monday, the intention to continue to deepen relations with Washington and other allied countries, such as Australia.