The DFA on Friday said Japan had expressed its support through a delegation that went to the Philippines to discuss maritime cooperation between the two countries that would help boost Manila's capability in protectiing its territories.
“Both sides shared the recognition that the issues in the South China Sea is a matter of great interests for the whole international community being directly related to regional peace and stability, and the the issue should be settled peacefully in accordance with the relevant international laws such as the Unclos,” Japan and the Philippines' joint statement said.
The Philippine delegation is headed by Gilberto Asuque, DFA assistant secretary, as chairperson and Henry Bensurto, DFA special assistant, as co-chair.
The Japanese delegation is led by Kenji Kanasugi, deputy director-general for Southwest and Southeast Asian Affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The DFA said that during a closed-door meeting, Japan's representatives said the country had expressed its intention to continue supporting the Philippine Coast Guard's capacity-building.
It was earlier reported that Japan would grant the Philippines a $10-million soft loan for the purchase of 10 brand new multi-role response vessels that would be deployed to the West Philippine Sea.
Japan and the Philippines' joint statement, however, did not mention if the loan was discussed during the dialogue.
It said the delegations from the two countries exchanged views on programs and actions "to promote cooperation in the maritime field, particularly in maritime security, freedom of navigation and safety at sea."
"They also exchanged views on regional maritime issues and shared the best practices in efforts to combat piracy, especially on the maritime law enforcement capabilities of countries near piracy-prone areas," the statement added.
Regarding the issues on piracy and armed robbery in Asian countries and Somalia, the two countries agreed to further strengthen their efforts in addressing the said problems through the utilization of the Regional Cooperation Agreement on Combating Piracy and Armed Robbery against Ships in Asia and other frameworks.
Japan will also assist the Philippines in helping other countries near piracy-prone areas enforce maritime laws, the Japanese Embassy in Manila said.
Japan also has its own territorial dispute with China over islands in the East China Sea, which Japan calls Senkakus but referred to as Diaoyus by China.-Interaksyon (February 23, 2013 9:20PM)
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