The Emerging Japan-Philippines Security Partnership

President Benigno Aquino of the Philippines visited Japan from June 2-5. During his visit, he attended a dinner hosted by Emperor Akihito, delivered a speech at the Japanese Diet, and met Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and his cabinet.

His visit — and what came out of it — was a clear demonstration of the emerging security partnership between Japan and the Philippines. Following the summit, Abe and Aquino issued a joint statement in which they spelled out their shared interest in peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region. The two leaders reiterated their shared belief that no country should be allowed to change the status quo by force or coercion. Japan and the Philippines also agreed to start negotiations toward an defense equipment transfer agreement, under which Japan would export defense equipment that will augment the capabilities of the Filipino coast guard.

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