Duterte, Japan PM Kishida commit to stronger strategic ties in phone call

President Rodrigo Duterte and Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio renewed the two countries' commitment to strengthen strategic partnership during a telephone call on Wednesday.

According to a statement from Malacanang, both leaders agreed to pursue deeper security engagement and coordination by launching a foreign and defense ministerial meeting or 2+2 meeting.

They also agreed to an exchange of visits to further reaffirm both countries’ partnership and personal friendship.

Duterte and Kishida also exchanged views on regional developments and multilateral issues such as those involving the South China Sea, Myanmar, the Korean Peninsula and non-proliferation.

Duterte thanked Japan for its supporting the administration’s “Build, Build, Build” program, peace process and grassroots development in Mindanao, and the ongoing transition process of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region.

“Japan is unrivaled among our bilateral partners. It is indeed a friend closer than a brother,” Duterte said.

Duterte said he looked forward to the successful implementation of projects and activities, which aim to enhance Philippines and Japan’s cooperation in maritime security, maritime connectivity, and preservation of the marine environment.

Kishida said Japan would continue supporting the Philippines’ peace and development agenda in Mindanao, “Build, Build, Build” program, and COVID-19 pandemic recovery response.

“[The] Philippines-Japan relations have indeed reached its golden age under President Duterte’s administration,” Kishida said.

Duterte congratulated Kishida on his election and the Japan government for the recent success of the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympic Games during their phone conversation.

He also recalled the Japanese prime minister’s visit in Davao when the latter paid a courtesy call as Foreign Minister of Japan last August 2016. Kishida was the first foreign minister received by Duterte.

Kishida expressed Japan's readiness to support in upgrading the Philippines’ maritime law enforcement capabilities.

Apart from celebrating their 65 years of normalized diplomatic relations, the Philippines and Japan also celebrated their 10 years of strengthened strategic partnership. -NB, GMA News