Japan’s foreign affairs and defense chiefs will visit Manila on July 8 to meet with their Philippine counterparts and potentially sign a key defense pact amid rising tensions with China in the South China Sea.
The Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) would allow both nations to deploy military forces to each other’s territories for various initiatives, including maintaining regional peace.
President Marcos emphasized the significance of the agreement, which is expected to be ratified during this high-level meeting.
The visit will also include bilateral meetings to discuss mutual concerns and strengthen defense cooperation.
Japanese lawmakers have condemned China’s aggressive actions in the West Philippine Sea, highlighting the importance of Japan-Philippines collaboration for regional stability.
Source: PhilNews24 | June 29, 2024
