The Philippines and Japan will hold high-level talks on January 14-15 to discuss defense, security, and economic cooperation, with Japanese Foreign Minister Iwaya Takeshi visiting Manila upon the invitation of Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo.
The meeting aims to reaffirm the “Strengthened Strategic Partnership” between the two nations amidst growing regional security challenges.
Topics will include the Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA), signed in July 2024, which enhances defense cooperation and interoperability between their armed forces.
Japan’s ongoing support for the Philippines includes shipbuilding for the Coast Guard and a 1.6-billion-dollar aid package to boost naval capabilities.
These discussions come as the two countries strengthen ties ahead of the 70th anniversary of normalized relations in 2026.
Source: PhilNews24 | January 11, 2025
