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| BRP Tubbataha multi-role response vessel |
By Christina Mendez
MANILA, Philippines - The need to uphold the rule of law in resolving regional conflicts highlighted the discussions yesterday between President Duterte and visiting Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe at Malacañang.
Emerging from the Aguinaldo State Dining Room after a meeting that lasted for about 30 minutes, Duterte and Abe said their countries are resolved to deepen and expand relations “across a broad range of areas,” including defense and security.
The two countries are embroiled in maritime disputes with China, which is claiming almost the entire South China Sea as well as an island in the East China Sea occupied by Tokyo.
In his speech after their meeting, Duterte said the Philippines and Japan have shared interests in protecting their territories.
“As proven defense and long-time partners, the Philippines and Japan are committed to further expand and deepen our relations across a broad range of areas,” Duterte said.
The President also said he had an active discussion with the Prime Minister on enhancing maritime and security cooperation.
“As maritime nations, the Philippines and Japan have a shared interest in keeping our waters safe and secure from threats of any kind,” Duterte declared.
Abe is the first leader invited by the President to visit the Philippines. Abe has selected Manila and Davao for his first stops in his roadshow visit around the region.
Duterte stressed the need for the Philippines to seek Japan’s help in modernizing its Armed Forces in addition to previous agreements.
Read the full story at The Philippine Star