US, Japan, Philippines leaders unite for cooperation

Washington, D.C., 12 April 2024(WAI): In a historic trilateral meeting, the leaders of the United States, Japan, and the Philippines convened to forge a new era of cooperation. President Joseph R. Biden, Jr., Prime Minister Fumio KISHIDA, and President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. recognized the critical importance of this alliance in safeguarding peace, prosperity, and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

Strengthening Bonds

Shared Vision: President Biden welcomed Prime Minister Kishida and President Marcos to the U.S., emphasizing the significance of this inaugural Japan-U.S.-Philippines Summit. The leaders pledged to deepen collaboration across security and economic domains, reinforcing the free and open international order based on the rule of law. Amidst global crises, multilayered cooperation among allies and like-minded nations becomes paramount.

Natural Partners: Prime Minister Kishida highlighted the unique bond between Japan, the United States, and the Philippines. As maritime nations connected by the vast Pacific Ocean, they share a common purpose: peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific. This summit serves as a concrete step toward further strengthening trilateral cooperation.

Regional Security and Prosperity

Alliance Commitment: The three leaders reaffirmed the pivotal role of the Japan-U.S. Alliance and the U.S.-Philippines Alliance in maintaining peace and security in the Indo-Pacific. President Biden underscored his unwavering commitment to these alliances.

Freedom of Navigation: The trio emphasized their dedication to freedom of navigation and overflight, essential for regional stability.

Countering Unilateral Actions: The leaders united against any attempts by the People’s Republic of China (PRC) to alter the status quo through force in the South China Sea and the East China Sea. Their resolve sends a clear message: unilateral actions will not go unopposed.

Strategic Initiatives

Defense Cooperation: Progress in bilateral cooperation includes negotiations for the Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA), coastal surveillance radar provision, and additional patrol vessels. Japan’s recent revision of the Three Principles on the Transfer of Defense Equipment and Technology further strengthens this collaboration.

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Space Exploration: The trilateral partnership aims for new frontiers in space cooperation.

Technology Innovation: Driving advancements together to bolster economic security.

Climate Action: Accelerating climate initiatives for a sustainable future.

Diplomacy and Development: Partnering on global issues.

People-to-People Ties: Fortifying connections among citizens.

A Unified Front

The U.S.-Philippines-Japan Summit marks a turning point. As equal partners, our nations synchronize strategies to address 21st-century challenges. Together, we realize a free and open Indo-Pacific and world.

“Our shared commitment will protect our families, strengthen our economies, and ensure a prosperous and secure future.” — President Joseph R. Biden, Jr., Prime Minister Fumio KISHIDA, and President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.