Japan wants stronger cooperation with PH on security, global affairs

Japan on Wednesday called for strengthened cooperation with the Philippines, particularly in the field of security and global affairs.

This developed as Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya paid a courtesy call on President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. at Malacañang Palace.

"I would like to ask for Your Excellency's continued support in strengthening cooperation between Japan and the Philippines on security issues and other global affairs," Iwaya told Marcos.

Japan's foreign minister further expressed gratitude for the warm welcome he received as he also conveyed the best regards of Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba to the Philippine government.

Iwaya emphasized that Japan shares core values and principles with the Philippines, particularly in this period when there are divisions and complexities in the international community.

Enhancing cooperation between the two countries is critical, Iwaya said, for promoting a free and rules-based Indo-Pacific region.

Marcos welcomed Iwaya's visit, saying that discussions about the two countries' relations should continue.

"I think that it is good that we continue these discussions and also I hope that we would be able to have a chance for the Philippines to explain and to show what has been done in terms of agreement since the signing of the tripartite agreement," the President said.

Marcos also reaffirmed the Philippines' commitment to strengthening economic ties with Japan to foster mutual prosperity.

Earlier in the day, Iwaya met with his Filipino counterpart, Enrique Manalo.

During the meeting, Japan called for a lowering of tensions amid China's actions in the South China Sea, which includes parts of the Philippines' exclusive economic zone.

"Actions that escalate tensions in the South China Sea are a genuine concern for the international community because they are directly connected to regional peace and stability. Japan firmly opposes any efforts to unilaterally alter the status quo through force or to escalate tensions in the area, and we earnestly call for the reduction of tensions," Iwaya said. — VDV, GMA Integrated News