Biden reaffirms support for Philippines and Japan in the face of Chinese aggression | Global News

US President Joe Biden emphasized the “ironclad” defence commitments to Japan and the Philippines as he launched a new trilateral partnership in the Indo-Pacific region. In a meeting with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, Biden asserted that any attack on Philippine aircraft, vessels, or armed forces in the South China Sea would invoke the mutual defence treaty.

The trilateral partnership between the US, Japan, and the Philippines comes in response to China’s military activities in the region. Biden highlighted the importance of deepening ties in technology, clean energy, and maritime security among the three nations.

Japanese Prime Minister Kishida stressed the need for multi-layered cooperation to maintain a free and open international order based on the rule of law. Philippine President Marcos described the partnership as a natural progression of deepening relations and robust cooperation among the three countries.

The leaders issued a joint statement affirming their commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific that is connected, prosperous, secure, inclusive, and resilient. They also expressed support for ASEAN centrality and unity, as well as cooperation with Pacific Island countries.

The historic summit marked a significant milestone in the trilateral efforts of the US, Japan, and the Philippines. The leaders emphasized the importance of working together to address complex challenges and forge a peaceful world for future generations.