Manila: The Philippines is gearing up to conduct joint naval drills alongside the United States, Japan, and Australia, a move aimed at enhancing military cooperation to address the escalating tensions in the Asia-Pacific region, particularly in response to China’s expanding influence.
According to two diplomatic sources who spoke to AFP on Thursday, the joint naval exercises are scheduled to commence on Sunday in the disputed waters of the South China Sea, where Beijing has asserted extensive territorial claims.
The upcoming drills signify a deepening of military ties among the four nations and serve as a unified response to China’s assertive actions in the region.
Coinciding with the joint drills, US President Joe Biden is slated to host a trilateral summit with the leaders of the Philippines and Japan, further underscoring the concerted effort to counter China’s assertiveness.
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While the exercises have not been officially announced, the anonymous sources emphasized that they are part of a broader strategy to bolster regional security and stability.
The recent arrival of the Australian warship HMAS Warramunga in the Philippine province of Palawan signifies the strategic importance of the joint maneuvers. Described by the Philippine military as a visit to strengthen military relations, the presence of the Australian vessel highlights the collaborative efforts to address regional tensions.
China’s assertive actions in the disputed waters have raised alarm bells among neighboring countries, prompting intensified efforts to reinforce alliances. The joint naval drills represent a coordinated effort to uphold regional security amid mounting geopolitical challenges.
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Biden’s upcoming summit with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida underscores the commitment to strengthening partnerships in the Asia-Pacific region.
The joint exercises and summit come in the wake of repeated confrontations between Chinese and Philippine vessels near disputed reefs, emphasizing the urgency of collective action to safeguard regional stability.
Notably, talks between the Philippines and Japan for a defense pact allowing troop deployments on each other’s territory are ongoing, further solidifying defense cooperation among allies in the region.
