Philippines, US, Japan, Australia militaries hold talks in Tokyo
Discussions 'focused on regional issues of common interest and more opportunities to expand cooperation,' says the AFP
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Discussions 'focused on regional issues of common interest and more opportunities to expand cooperation,' says the AFP
Wellington’s overtures to the Pacific Island nations are starting to see results as its new approach to the region sees relations improve allowing for more in-depth defence engagement.
Australia and the Philippines are in talks for launching joint maritime patrols in the West Philippine Sea after Australian Deputy Prime Minister and defense chief Richard Marles arrived in Manila yesterday to seek deeper security relations between the two countries.
It was a prudent stance for the Department of Foreign Affairs that averted escalating the most recent tension sparked by China’s aggressive action in the West Philippine Sea.
Experts are urging countries to remain vigilant and avoid being coerced by others after the Philippines and Japan signed a military deal and after Manila belatedly began pointing an accusing finger at Beijing over a maritime incident on Feb 6.