Major Japanese news agency Kyodo News recently reported in its Chinese edition that Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba just held talks with President Marcos in Manila, the Philippines. The two countries agreed to expand cooperation in the field of national security, including the initiation of discussions for an agreement on intelligence exchanges.
Given China’s intensified activities in the East and South China Seas, both sides unanimously opposed the attempts to unilaterally change the status quo by force or pressure. The two leaders also discussed U.S. tariff related measures. Shigeru Ishiba emphasized that Japan and the Philippines are close allies and will further strengthen ties with the important neighbors. The two countries agreed to deepen cooperation through the establishment of a coastal security base, support for capacity building, and joint trainings among Japan, the United States, and the Philippines. The two sides also confirmed cooperation in a wide range of fields, including information and communications, energy, and disaster prevention.
Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba arrived in the Philippines after he ended his visit to Vietnam.
Source: Kyodo Chinese, April 30, 2025
https://china.kyodonews.net/news/2025/04/23107bb2f7a1.html