Blinken, Locsin reaffirm importance of Philippine-US bilateral ties

The United States has reaffirmed the importance of its bilateral relationship with the Philippines in a meeting between US State Secretary Antony Blinken and Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr.

“Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken met today with Philippine Secretary of Foreign Affairs Teodoro Locsin, Jr. Secretary Blinken reaffirmed the importance of the bilateral relationship,” US State Department spokesperson Ned Price said in a statement released Friday morning (Manila time).

This occurred as the Philippines and the US celebrate the 70th anniversary of their alliance and the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations.

According to the US spokesperson, Blinken highlighted the importance of freedom of navigation and respect for international law, specifically in the South China Sea.

Locsin and Blinken also discussed matters related to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, economic engagement, and human rights. —Hana Bordey/KBK, GMA News