Tokyo, Japan
October 26, 2016
President Rodrigo Roa Duterte and Prime Minister Shinzo Abe recognized the significance of the Chief Executive’s visit as the Philippines and Japan celebrate the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations.
Being maritime nations, the two countries support the enhancement of maritime safety capability in their respective territories. Prime Minister Abe said, “I am very happy that we have just signed the documents covering the transfer of large patrol vessels, as well as the letter of arrangement on the transfer of Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force trainer aircraft TC-90s.”
The Prime Minister also expressed his support to the Philippine government’s efforts concerning the promotion of peace and stability throughout the country, especially in Mindanao.
“As part of our counter-terrorism measures, the transfer of high-speed small vessels and equipment has been decided. Cooperation in the area of counter-terrorism will continue to deepen going forward… Infrastructure development will be strongly supported in both the metropolitan and Davao areas. In this regard, I welcome the signing today of the Memorandum of Cooperation in the field of information and communication technology,” he said.
With regards to the recent visit of President Duterte in China, Prime Minister Abe said that Japan welcomes the effort of the President in advancing the bilateral relationship between the Philippines and China.
“The South China Sea issue is a matter of interest before the entire global community that is directly linked to regional peace and stability. With regard to the arbitration award, we have confirmed the importance of peaceful resolution of maritime disputes such as resolution in compliance with UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, amongst others, without resorting to threat or use of force,” he said.
President Duterte said that his meeting with Prime Minister Abe was productive and fruitful with their discussion on issues that are significant to both nations.
“We want to increase two-way trade and investments, especially in agriculture and manufacturing and look at various opportunities for new areas of collaboration. These include the development of quality infrastructure and transport systems crucial in order to sustain the Philippines’ economic growth,” the President said.
The Philippines also welcomes Japan’s initiatives that support the Philippine government’s effort to realize Mindanao’s full potential and will consider it as an important partner in modernizing the capabilities of the Philippines for maritime domain awareness and maritime security.
“This visit has been a defining moment on the solid and strategic partnership between the Philippines and Japan. Today, we have taken steps to ensure that our ties remain vibrant and will gain greater strength in the years to come,” said President Duterte as he concluded his statement.
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