The Philippines and Japan have agreed to work together for the signing of a deal that would enable the transfer of defense equipment to the Philippine military in the wake of China’s aggressive expansion in the South China Sea.
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Abe, for his part, said Japan is ready to work with the Philippines to realize the agreement.
The defense equipment transfer was first discussed during Aquino’s state visit to Japan in June.
Philippine defense officials, however, have admitted this may not be signed within Aquino’s presidency because of the lengthy legal procedures involved.
Obama said he and Abe shared “an interest in continuing to foster rule of law and supporting worldwide norms in areas like freedom of navigation and maritime law”.
The Philippines has raised alarm over China’s island-building on disputed shoals in the South China Sea, prompting long-standing ally the United States to sail a vessel near the new artificial islands.
Abe expressed his admiration for Aquino’s “strong leadership that has guided the series of meetings to a great success” during the Apec.
Abe reiterated the position of Japan to make further contributions to the peace and stability of the region and the global community through the two countries’ policy of proactive contribution to peace.
Abe replied by saying he hopes the Japan-U.S. alliance will contribute to peace, stability and prosperity in the Asia-Pacific region and the entire worldwide community. “At present, the SDF does not continuously conduct surveillance activities in the South China Sea, and we have no such specific plans”, Suga told reporters. Japan and China are also embroiled in a row over the unoccupied Senkaku Islands in the East China Sea.
According to a press release, this would coordinate pension programs for people who lived or worked in the Philippines and Japan, wherein those covered by their respective social security systems would continue to receive benefits whether residing in the Philippines, Japan, or even another country.
In a statement, the Japanese Embassy said Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario and Japanese Ambassador Kazuhide Ishikawa “exchanged notes” for a yen loan “amounting to 241.991 billion yen (approximately P93.457 billion) on November 19, 2015”.
Aquino said his meeting with Abe was “extremely productive” and that the relations between the Philippines and Japan – both close U.S. allies – is “a bond that transcends diplomacy”.
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Meanwhile, Abe announced that Japan’s Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko would visit the Philippines next year to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the two countries’ diplomatic ties.
