Asia

Japan can now deploy its forces to the Philippines under landmark defence pact

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Japan and the Philippines signed a key defence agreement on July 8, 2024, allowing the deployment of Japanese forces for joint military exercises, including live-fire drills. The latest development in the alliance came as the region faces an increasingly assertive China. The Reciprocal Access Agreement, which also allows Philippine forces to enter Japan for joint combat training, would take effect after ratification by the countries’ legislatures. The defence pact with the Philippines is the first to be forged by Japan in Asia. Japanese Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa, who took part in the signing, called the agreement a “groundbreaking achievement”.

Source: AFP
 

July 8, 2024