Philippines and Vietnam boost 'strategic' ties as China sea feuds fester
The Philippines and Vietnam have been the most outspoken critics of China’s way of dealing with territorial disputes in the South China Sea
The Philippines and Vietnam have signed a strategic partnership deepening security ties in the face of Beijing’s increased assertiveness in the disputed South China Sea.
Philippine leader Benigno Aquino and Vietnamese President Truong Tan Sang expressed concern over tensions in the strategic sea – which Hanoi calls the East Sea – home to some of the world’s most important shipping lanes.
“Mr President [Aquino] and I shared our concerns over the recent developments in the East Sea, or the South China Sea, affecting trust, peace, security and stability in the region,” Sang said.
He added that the pact marked a “new era for cooperation” between the two countries.
Aquino said the deal would “deepen our cooperation, particularly in the areas of economic, agricultural, defence and maritime engagement – areas that are truly vital to the strategic interests of both our nations”.
A copy of the pact was not made available but Aquino said he and Sang discussed the Philippines’ case before a United Nations-backed tribunal questioning the legality of China’s sea claims.