PHL to follow up JPN assistance for infra, transpo projects during Kishida visit

The Philippines will discuss Japan's infrastructure investment commitments and opportunities in the country during Japanese Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida's visit to Manila, his Philippine counterpart said. According to Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario at a lunch event with the media on Wednesday, the government will follow up Japan's assistance in the acquisition of around 10 multi-role response vessels (for the Coast Guard's use in rough weather); the construction of the New Bohol Airport in Panglao; the LRT Line 2 East Extension project, and the LRT Line 1 South Extension project. Japan is one of the Philippines' most important economic partners in terms of trade, investments and development assistance. Asked of the significance of Kishida’s visit, del Rosario said it manifests what the “new government” of Japan and its policies will be like. “I think the foreign minister is going to be visiting us to be able to share with us the foreign policy of the new government of Japan,” he said. He added that bilateral relations and regional issues will be some of the topics to be discussed with Kishida as Japan is “an important strategic partner” of the Philippines. “We’re very happy to be able to have this opportunity to broaden, deepen and enhance our relationship and we are looking forward to these discussions that we will have which should be very comprehensive in nature,” del Rosario said. Kishida is in Manila on Wednesday and Thursday, his first overseas trip since assuming the post of Foreign Minister. He is also scheduled to pay a courtesy call on President Benigno S. Aquino III. — BM, GMA News