In a historic trilateral summit held at the White House, President Joe Biden reaffirmed the United States’ unwavering support for Japan and the Philippines in the face of escalating territorial disputes with China. The summit, a first of its kind, brought together President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. of the Philippines and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, following the latter’s official visit.
Addressing the gathering in the East Room of the White House, President Biden emphasized the importance of solidarity, stating, “When we stand as one, we’re able to forge a better future for all.”
Both Japan and the Philippines find themselves embroiled in separate territorial conflicts with China. Japan’s dispute centers around the Senkaku Islands in the East China Sea, while the Philippines contests China’s claims in the South China Sea, notably around Second Thomas Shoal.
The tensions between the Philippines and China have escalated in recent years, with confrontations occurring at Second Thomas Shoal. Biden reiterated the US stance, stating that any attack on Philippine assets in the South China Sea would trigger the mutual defense treaty between the two nations, dating back to 1951.
The trilateral meeting underscores the US administration’s concern over China’s aggressive actions in the South China Sea. A senior administration official expressed the White House’s commitment to supporting the Philippines, Japan, and other allies against such aggression.
President Marcos highlighted the shared values binding the three nations, emphasizing their commitment to democracy, good governance, and the rule of law.
Amid regional tensions, particularly regarding Taiwan, the South China Sea, and North Korea’s nuclear provocations, the summit aimed to strengthen alliances in the Indo-Pacific region. Japan, in particular, has been a key ally for the US in the region, with Prime Minister Kishida pledging increased defense spending and support for international partners like Ukraine.
The meeting also saw announcements aimed at bolstering the Philippines’ capabilities, including infrastructure projects and military investments. These measures are intended to send a clear message to Beijing regarding the US commitment to its allies in the region.
In the lead-up to the summit, joint maritime military exercises involving the US, Japan, Philippines, and Australia were conducted near the Philippines’ Exclusive Economic Zone, in response to alleged harassment by Chinese vessels in the South China Sea.
Additionally, the White House is set to announce investments in Open Radio Access Network technology and increased funding from both the US and Japan. Plans for a Coast Guard patrol in the Indo-Pacific in the coming year were also revealed.
The trilateral summit reaffirms the United States’ commitment to its allies in the Indo-Pacific region and signals a coordinated effort to address growing challenges posed by China’s assertive actions.
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