Japan and Philippines Expand Defence Cooperation

Japanese Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi and Philippine Defence Secretary Gilberto Teodoro agreed on Tuesday to fast-track the transfer of Abukuma-class destroyers and TC-90 aircraft to the Philippines.

The agreement was reached during talks in Makati and followed Japan’s landmark revision of defence export rules, which allowed the sale of warships, missiles and other weapons.

“We agreed to move forward with discussions aimed at realising comprehensive equipment cooperation, including education and training, maintenance and sustainment, operational coordination, and information sharing,” the Japanese Defence Minister stated.

The agreement is part of broader efforts by Japan and the Philippines to strengthen defence cooperation in policy, operations, equipment and technology amid rising regional and global security tensions.

“As the regional and international security environment becomes increasingly severe, Japan and the Philippines have been working in close coordination,” Koizumi stated.

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