Japan seeks closer economic, security ties with Philippines

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe (right) and Filipino President Rodrigo Duterte in their talks in Tokyto. (Source: AFP/VNA)

Tokyo (VNA) – Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe expressed his willingness to strengthen economic and security ties with the Philippines during talks with Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte in Tokyo, Japan, on October 26.

The two sides have agreed to specific support, including Japan’s provision of loans in Japanese yen to the Philippines to support slow growing localities.

Japan will also provide the Philippines with two patrol ships to boost its defence capacity at sea.

At a joint press conference after the talks, PM Abe said the two sides agreed on the importance of the peaceful settlement of disputes at sea.

During the visit, his first to Japan after assuming the presidency last June, President Duterte is scheduled to meet Japan’s Emperor Akihito on October 27.-VNA