Biden Reaffirms Strong US Defense Support for the Philippines and Japan Amid Heightened China Tensions
President Joe Biden underscored the unwavering commitment of the United States to its Pacific allies, the Philippines and Japan, amidst escalating concerns over provocative actions by China in the Indo-Pacific region. This affirmation came as Biden convened a trilateral summit at the White House with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida.
The longstanding defense treaty between the US and the Philippines, in effect for over 70 years, formed the backdrop for Biden's assertion of unequivocal support. Amid ongoing confrontations between the Philippine and Chinese coast guards in the disputed South China Sea, Biden emphasized that any attack on Philippine assets in the region would trigger the mutual defense provisions of the treaty.
Tensions in the South China Sea have been exacerbated by what's been termed as "gray-zone" harassment by China, including incidents of intimidation against Philippine vessels. Biden's recent phone call with Chinese President Xi Jinping addressed these concerns, particularly China's obstructive actions hindering Philippine resupply efforts near the Second Thomas Shoal.
In response to these challenges, the White House convened the first-ever trilateral summit with Japan and the Philippines, signaling a unified front against China's assertiveness in the region. The summit aimed to send a clear message that such behavior by China is unacceptable and that the US remains committed to bolstering its alliances in the Indo-Pacific.
As part of this strategic alignment, joint patrols in the Indo-Pacific were announced, alongside plans for a new economic corridor in the Philippines under the G7 Partnership for Global Infrastructure Investment. Additionally, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Japan revealed plans for joint military exercises in the region in 2025.
Prime Minister Kishida's address to US lawmakers underscored the importance of strengthening US-Japan ties amid regional tensions, emphasizing the need for a concerted response to challenges in the Asia-Pacific.
Biden's efforts to enhance relations with the Philippines have been a priority since President Marcos assumed office, marking a shift towards closer cooperation amid shared concerns over China's actions. The partnership reflects a strategic recalibration towards countering China's growing influence in the region, solidifying the United States' commitment to its allies amidst evolving geopolitical dynamics.
