Japan aims to lay the groundwork for a new security treaty with the Philippines

 

Japan envisions 'quasi-alliance' with Philippines

Kishida to pave way for new security pact to counter China's maritime ambitions

A Philippine naval ship participates in the ASEAN Fleet Review in May. Japan wants to strengthen its defense partnership with the Philippines, including by facilitating joint drills.

 

 TOKYO -- Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida aims to lay the groundwork for a new security treaty with the Philippines during his upcoming trip there, part of Tokyo's efforts to expand its network of "quasi-allies" for joint training in the Indo-Pacific.

The push comes as China rapidly bolsters its military, sparking concern that the U.S. and its alliance with Japan would not be enough to deter expansionist moves by Beijing. Tokyo looks to increase its cooperation with other American allies like Australia, the U.K., South Korea and the Philippines.