MANILA: Talks between Japan and the Philippines for a Reciprocal Access Agreement on defense and security are close to conclusion, Japan’s envoy to Philippines said. The role of the Philippines in maintaining regional security and stability was undoubtedly significant, ambassador Kazuya Endo said. An important development can be expected on defense equipment transfer, he disclosed.
The development comes as Japanese and Philippine foreign and defense ministers will meet in Manila on July 8 for dialogue that could include a breakthrough defense agreement that would allow their military to visit each other’s country.
The Philippines has been ramping up its relations with neighbors and other nations to counter what it describes as Beijing’s growing aggression in the South China Sea.
Kazuya Endo further said that maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait is important for the Indo Pacific region.
