Malacañan Palace
December 19, 2024

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. welcomed Mr. Akiba Takeo, National Security Adviser of Japan, during a courtesy call at the Study Room in Malacañan Palace.

In his remarks, the President emphasized the importance of maintaining strong bilateral ties between the Philippines and Japan in the areas of defense and security, especially amidst the issues surrounding the disputed waters in the West Philippine Sea (WPS). He underscored the recent ratification of the Philippines-Japan Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA), which aims to further enhance military cooperation and joint exercises between the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Japan Self-Defense Forces.

Mr. Takeo expressed enthusiasm regarding the bilateral relations between Japan and the Philippines, which have remained remarkable and fruitful over the years. He stressed the importance of maintaining the principle of the rule of law and strengthening partnerships in various areas of mutual interest, such as maritime security, economic stability, and peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region, among others.

* * *