The Philippines ratifies key defence pact with Japan

The Philippine Senate on December 16 ratified a key defence pact with Japan, which allows them to deploy troops on each other's territory, and strengthen joint combat drills.

Senate President Francis Escudero presents to Japanese envoy to Manila, Endo Kazuya, the Senate Resolution ratifying the Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) between the Philippines and Japan which would facilitate reciprocal access and cooperation between the militaries of both countries. (Photo: manilastandard.net)

The Senate said in a statement that ratifying the agreement further affirms the strategic partnership between the two countries and their mutual goal to enhance contribution to regional and international peace, security, and stability.

The pact will expand the bilateral defence cooperation in the maritime domain amid shared security challenges.

Lawmakers in Tokyo will also need to vote through the treaty before it takes effect, the Japan Embassy said./.

VNA