American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, May 2, 2014 – Acting Deputy Defense Secretary Christine H. Fox met at the Pentagon today with Philippine Vice President Jejomar Binay to discuss enhancing bilateral defense ties and regional security issues.
James Swartout, a spokesman for Fox, said the acting deputy secretary congratulated Binay on the recent signing of the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement, which deepens U.S. engagement with the Philippines. She also reiterated the U.S. commitment to helping the Philippines develop its maritime domain awareness and maritime security capabilities, he added.
In addition, Swartout said, the pair commented on the productive discussions between U.S., Philippine and other regional leaders at the recent U.S.-Association of Southeast Asian Nations Defense Forum hosted in Hawaii by Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel, and Binay complimented Fox on the success of President Barack Obama's recent trip to the Philippines.
The two leaders also discussed regional security developments, including recent events in the South China Sea, Swartout said.