TOKYO/MANILA – Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. discussed energy security and bilateral cooperation during a telephone meeting Oct. 20, ahead of November’s ASEAN-related summits.
Takaichi said in a post on X that Japan wanted to work closely with the Philippines, which holds the Association of Southeast Asian Nations chairmanship this year, in preparation for the 49th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits.
She also cited prolonged instability in the Middle East as a reason for countries in the region to strengthen economic and energy resilience.
“Japan will continue to closely collaborate with the Philippines for the peace and stability of the region,” she said in her post on X.
Marcos Jr. said in a Facebook post that the leaders discussed energy security, defense, peace efforts in Mindanao and the Luzon Economic Corridor, which aims to attract investment and create jobs.
“We look forward to building on our strong partnership for a more peaceful, secure and prosperous region,” he said in a Facebook post.
Japan and the Philippines are scheduled to co-chair the fourth Asia Zero Emission Community (AZEC) Leaders’ Meeting next month.
The Philippine Presidential Communications Office said the leaders also discussed artificial intelligence cooperation and regional developments.
The two governments said the leaders welcomed progress in bilateral relations since Marcos Jr.’s state visit to Japan in May, when the countries elevated their ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. - Florenda Corpuz
(Photo courtesy of Presidential Communications Office)
