In Manila, Philippines, discussions are underway regarding the necessity for the U.S. to reaffirm its commitment to uphold the rule of law in Asia, which is experiencing heightened security challenges. This sentiment was expressed by Japan’s Foreign Minister, Takeshi Iwaya, during a press conference with Philippine Foreign Minister, Enrique Manalo.
The alliance among the U.S., Japan, and the Philippines has been evolving since last year under President Joe Biden, primarily focusing on addressing China’s more assertive actions in the contested South China Sea and East China Sea. Concerns have arisen about the implications of Donald Trump’s “America First” approach to foreign policy on U.S. involvement in this crucial region as he prepares for another term.
Iwaya indicated plans to meet with the new U.S. administration to emphasize that the U.S. engagement in the Asia-Pacific is vital, not just for the region but for the U.S. itself. During the conference, he highlighted the strategic importance of Japan’s collaboration with the Philippines and the necessity of preserving the trilateral relationship with the United States amidst escalating tensions in the area.
In recent weeks, there has been a worrying rise in confrontations involving Chinese forces and the Philippine coast guard, leading to fears of potential conflict that could involve the United States. Due to existing agreements, the U.S. has expressed its commitment to assist the Philippines in the event of armed aggression in the South China Sea.
Iwaya reiterated the significance of the South China Sea issue, urging that it concerns not only the directly involved nations but the international community at large, as it relates to regional stability. He stated Japan’s strong disapproval of efforts to change the status quo through force and called for a de-escalation of tensions in the region.
In recent statements, the National Security Council’s assistant director-general, Jonathan Malaya, remarked on China’s increasingly aggressive stance, declaring that Manila is evaluating its options, which may include legal actions on the international stage against China.
The Philippine coast guard has reported that a large Chinese coast guard vessel has recently been patrolling the Scarborough Shoal, which is a point of contention, and came within 77 nautical miles of the Philippine coastline. In response, a Chinese official reaffirmed Beijing’s claim over the South China Sea, asserting that their coast guard operations are within legal parameters.
Moreover, the Chinese government has accused the Philippines and other competing countries, including Vietnam and Malaysia, of infringing upon what it considers undisputed waters. In light of these developments, Foreign Minister Manalo announced that the Philippines would address China’s recent activities in forthcoming diplomatic discussions in Xiamen, China. These talks are part of a longer-standing effort known as the Bilateral Consultation Mechanism designed to manage and mitigate disputes before they escalate into armed conflicts.
