Staff Reports
President Biden took part in a historic summit with the leaders of Japan and the Philippines to demonstrate a united front against China’s aggressive military actions in the South China Sea. During the meeting, Mr. Biden reassured both countries of the unwavering commitment of the United States to their defense partnership.
The leaders announced plans for joint coast guard patrols in the Indo-Pacific, with the U.S. Coast Guard welcoming Filipino and Japanese coast guard members onto its vessels during these patrols. The drills and patrols will focus on the disputed South China Sea, where China has made claims and harassed Filipino ships.
U.S. to flex alliance with Japan, Philippines with joint patrols, drills near South China Seahttps://t.co/2U8ncjPlmx pic.twitter.com/U2czDdmDXn
— The Washington Times (@WashTimes) April 12, 2024
Furthermore, the White House will introduce a new infrastructure project to develop a rail and shipping corridor between two Philippine military bases, aimed at bolstering Manila’s military capabilities.
The Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. expressed optimism about the meeting, emphasizing the need to deepen ties and enhance coordination. This sentiment was echoed by Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio, who held a one-on-one meeting with President Biden prior to the summit and was honored with a state dinner, reserved for the closest allies of the United States. Both leaders have shown a keen interest in forging closer relationships with Washington amidst escalating tensions with China.
Mr. Biden’s efforts to cultivate a coalition of allies in the Indo-Pacific region to counter China’s aggressiveness have been well-received by leaders like Mr. Kishida and Mr. Marcos. Japan has pledged to increase its defense spending and acquire American Tomahawk missiles, while the Philippines, under Mr. Marcos’ leadership, has sought to strengthen its ties with the U.S.
The South China Sea, with its strategic importance as a major shipping route, has become a focal point of tensions between China and neighboring countries, including the Philippines, Vietnam, Taiwan, and Malaysia. President Biden’s engagement with these allies demonstrates a commitment to maintaining stability in the region and asserting the United States’ influence in the face of China’s expanding ambitions.
