Biden reaffirms U.S. commitments to Japan and the Philippines amid China tensions
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by Balikbayan Store
1 min reading time
In a historic trilateral summit at the White House, President Joe Biden reiterated the United States' unwavering support for Japan and the Philippines in their territorial disputes with China. Hosting Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and Filipino President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., Biden emphasized the enduring alliance between the three nations.
"Our commitments to the defense of Japan and the Philippines remain ironclad," Biden affirmed during the summit, underscoring the solidarity necessary to forge a better future.
The territorial disputes with China, particularly in the South China Sea, have escalated tensions. Biden warned that any attack on Philippine forces in the region would trigger the mutual defense treaty between the U.S. and the Philippines.
The summit aimed to address Chinese aggression in the region, with a senior administration official expressing deep concern over China's actions in the South China Sea. The meeting showcased a united front, with Biden and Kishida pledging support for the Philippines against Chinese provocations.
Marcos highlighted the shared vision of a peaceful and prosperous Indo-Pacific, emphasizing democracy, good governance, and the rule of law as common principles binding the three countries.
Amid growing regional concerns, the summit addressed not only China's posture but also North Korea's nuclear provocations and its ties with Russia. Biden hailed Japan's alliance, particularly under Kishida's leadership, highlighting Japan's commitment to bolstering its defense capabilities.
The U.S. announced initiatives to support the Philippines, including a new infrastructure project and increased military capability investments. An economic corridor between Clark Air Base and Subic Naval Base aims to enhance regional connectivity and counter Chinese influence.
Ahead of the summit, joint maritime military exercises involving the U.S., Japan, Philippines, and Australia were conducted near the Philippines' Exclusive Economic Zone, responding to alleged Chinese harassment.
Furthermore, investments in Open Radio Access Network technology and Coast Guard patrols in the Indo-Pacific demonstrate a concerted effort to bolster regional security and counter Chinese assertiveness.
