Japan and Philippines to sign defense pact letting Tokyo’s forces train in Southeast Asian country
Associated PressJul 20
Japan, Philippines Sign Defense Deal
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Above: Japan Foreign Minister Kamikawa Yoko (2L) and Philippine Defense Minister Gilberto Teodoro Jr. (2R) sign the Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) at the Malacanang Palace on July 8, 2024 in Manila, Philippines. Image copyright: Lisa Marie David/Pool/Getty Images News via Getty Images
The Facts
Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro and Japan's Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa on Monday signed the Reciprocal Access Agreement — a defense deal that would allow either side to deploy equipment and troops on the other's territory.
The deal, which reportedly comes to counter China's maneuvers in the region, allows the deployment of Japanese forces in the Philippines for joint military exercises, including live-fire drills. It also lets Filipino forces into Japan for joint combat training.
The Spin
Anti-China narrative
Strengthening ties between Tokyo and Manila must be welcomed in light of China's growing assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific region. Their latest pact emphasizes defense cooperation and strategic unity, and their alliance aims to counterbalance China's influence and demonstrate that the US and its allies will not remain passive if conflict arises. This proactive stance is crucial for regional stability and security.
Pro-China narrative
Tokyo and Manila getting closer under US mentoring may threaten East Asia's peace. Monday's pact enhancing military cooperation is essentially an "anti-China" move. And with the US silently looming large, Japan and the Philippines are infringing on the PRC's sovereignty. Their focus on defense collaboration and maritime security intensifies the potential for conflict rather than fostering peace in the region.
