Japan and Philippines Strengthen Trilateral Cooperation with the United States

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Japan and Philippines Strengthen Trilateral Cooperation with the United States

Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya and Philippine Foreign Secretary Enrique Manalo came together in Manila to discuss bolstering trilateral cooperation with the United States on crucial aspects like maritime security, cybersecurity, and economic security. The meeting, held days before Donald Trump's return to the White House, highlighted the importance of continuing and enhancing collaboration among the three countries in the face of evolving geopolitical challenges.

During the meeting, both ministers expressed a commitment to keeping up the momentum of cooperation among Japan, the U.S., and the Philippines by closely engaging with the incoming Trump administration. Emphasizing the need for sustained communication, they aimed to strengthen ties and navigate the complex geopolitical landscape effectively. The discussions were particularly timely given the mounting tensions over territorial disputes in the South China Sea, with concerns over the recent presence of a large China Coast Guard vessel within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone.

In response to the escalating tensions in the region, Iwaya raised his "serious concerns" about actions that contribute to regional instability in the South China Sea. The foreign ministers also underscored Tokyo's ongoing support for Manila's maritime security and safety capabilities through programs like Official Security Assistance and Official Development Assistance. As both nations work towards fortifying their alliance, the focus remains on addressing security challenges and promoting stability in the Indo-Pacific region.