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The Philippines
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Japan, Philippines tighten ties with new defence pact amid China tensions

The agreement removes taxes on military supplies, including weapons and fuel used in joint exercises

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Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi (left) and Philippine Foreign Secretary Theresa Lazaro shake hands after their joint press conference in Pasay City, Metro Manila, on Thursday. Photo: Reuters
Associated Press
Japan and the Philippines signed a defence pact on Thursday that would allow the tax-free provision of ammunition, fuel, food and other necessities when their forces stage joint training to boost deterrence against China’s growing aggression in the region and to bolster their preparation for natural disasters.
Japan has faced increasing political, trade and security tensions with Beijing, which was angered by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s remark that potential mainland Chinese action against Taiwan could spark Japanese intervention.

Beijing sees Taiwan as part of China to be reunited by force if necessary. While many nations, including the US, do not officially acknowledge Taiwan as an independent state, they oppose any use of force to alter the existing status quo.

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Japan and the Philippines have also had separate territorial conflicts with Beijing in the East China Sea and South China Sea that have continued to flare and threaten to draw in the United States, a treaty ally of the two Asian nations.
Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi signed the Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement with Philippine Foreign Secretary Theresa Lazaro in Manila. During the ceremony, Japan also announced new security and economic development help to the Philippines.
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The military logistical agreement, which has to be ratified by Japanese legislators before it takes effect, is the latest key defence pact to be forged between Japan and the Philippines to deepen their security alliance.

Aside from easing joint combat drills, it would also help Japan and the Philippines jointly respond to natural disasters, a mutual concern, and participate in peacekeeping operations by the United Nations, according to Japanese and Philippine officials.

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