Japan wants further cooperation with the Philippines
(VOVworld) – Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said Japan wants to foster economical and security cooperation with the Philippines.
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| Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe (right) and President Rodrigo Duterte (fifth left) at a meeting in Tokyo (Photo: AFP/ VNA) |
Prime Minister Abe met Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte on Wednesday during Mr. Duterte’s first visit to Japan since he took office in June. Both sides signed agreements including Japan’s provision of two patrol ships to beef up Philippine maritime security. Japan also agreed to support infrastructure and agricultural promotion projects in the Philippines.
At a joint press conference after their meeting, Prime Minister Abe said they agreed on the importance of settling maritime disputes through peaceful means. The two leaders are expected to have a private meeting where they will discuss China’s construction activities in the East Sea and the importance of their US ally in maintaining peace and stability in the region.