TOKYO: President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida met on Sunday during the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)-Japan Commemorative Summit in Tokyo. The leaders discussed the importance of reaching an “early conclusion” on the planned Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) between the Philippines and Japan. They also emphasized the need to enhance cooperation between the coast guards of both countries to address regional and international challenges.
The agreement to work towards the RAA was highlighted in a statement from the Japan Foreign Affairs Ministry. The leaders expressed their commitment to continue coordinating efforts to finalize the negotiations and stressed the significance of the RAA in maintaining peace in the region. President Marcos Jr. emphasized that the RAA would not only enhance security but also contribute to disaster preparedness and alleviation.
The proposed RAA is aimed at strengthening defense cooperation between the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Japan Self-Defense Forces. It will facilitate joint exercises and training, allowing for closer collaboration between the two countries. Currently, Japan participates as an observer in the annual Balikatan exercises and has conducted smaller joint training exercises with the Philippine Coast Guard.
President Marcos Jr. also mentioned Japan’s Official Security Assistance (OSA) program, which forms the basis of the strategic partnership between Manila and Tokyo. Under the OSA program, Japan provides defense equipment to like-minded partners free of charge. Prime Minister Kishida confirmed Japan’s commitment to steadily provide coastal radar systems through the OSA program.
In addition to defense cooperation, the leaders discussed the importance of strengthening collaboration in energy transition and decarbonization. They expressed their intention to promote infrastructure cooperation between the two countries.
The Philippines’ pursuit of a reciprocal access agreement with Japan comes as a response to China’s expanding military presence in the region, particularly in the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone. By strengthening defense cooperation and enhancing maritime security capabilities, the Philippines aims to ensure regional stability and protect its territorial integrity.
It is important to note that the Philippines already has a Status of Visiting Forces Agreement with Australia, in addition to its existing defense alliance with the United States. The proposed RAA with Japan further demonstrates the country’s commitment to building partnerships with like-minded nations to address common security challenges.
As the negotiations for the RAA continue, both the Philippines and Japan are optimistic about the prospects of closer defense cooperation. The agreement will not only bolster security measures but also enhance disaster preparedness and response capabilities. By working together, the two countries are poised to address regional and international challenges effectively.
In conclusion, the Philippines and Japan are actively working towards the early conclusion of the Reciprocal Access Agreement. This agreement will strengthen defense cooperation, enhance maritime security, and contribute to regional stability. By fostering partnerships with like-minded nations, the Philippines aims to address common security challenges and protect its territorial integrity.
Source: The Manila Times
