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WASHINGTON – US officials and their counterparts from the Philippines yesterday reaffirmed the two nations’ military alliance at a time when China has become more assertive in the region.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin yesterday made their remarks as the two countries conduct a major joint military exercise that is the largest ever between the two nations, reported United Press International.
Blinken, Austin and their Philippines counterparts all touched on the potential military threat posed by China in the region, during what’s referred to as the 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue.
“Secretary of Defence Austin and I also reaffirmed the United States’ unwavering commitment to standing with the Philippines against any intimidation or coercion, including (in) the South China Sea,” Blinken said during the news conference, pointing out that the Philippines is the oldest American ally in the region.
“Our security alliance is an enduring source of strength for both of our nations. Today, we focused on ways to continue our close partnership, under the enhanced cooperation agreement so that our forces can work even more closely together.”
The American and Philippines militaries yesterday started their largest-ever joint military exercise in which a combined 17,600 members of both militaries are taking part in the annual Balikata exercise, under the Enhanced Defence Cooperation Agreement.
Earlier this month, the Defence Department announced funding to construct four new military installations in the Philippines, as well as money to enhance existing locations. – Bernama, April 12, 2023