In a significant gathering, the leaders of the U.S., Japan, and the Philippines convened at the White House to address the escalating tensions with China in the South China Sea. The summit highlighted the growing concerns about Beijing's aggressive actions, including its militarization of reclaimed features and unlawful maritime claims in the region.
The meeting was focused on pushing back against China's increasing pressure on Manila, which has led to maritime run-ins and disputes in the South China Sea. The leaders expressed serious concerns about China's behavior and reaffirmed their commitment to uphold defense treaties and respond to any armed attacks in the region, particularly in the Philippines' exclusive economic zone.
Amid criticisms from China, the trilateral summit aimed to send a strong message of unity and support to the Philippines. The leaders announced joint military efforts, strategic dialogues, and infrastructure investments to bolster defense capabilities and enhance cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region. Additionally, agreements were made to strengthen economic ties and support new infrastructure projects in the Philippines, focusing on areas like ports, rail, clean energy, and semiconductor supply chains.