MANILA, Philippines - Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe arrived in Manila Friday night on the last leg of his 3-country state visit to Southeast Asia.
He is scheduled to hold talks with President Benigno Aquino on Saturday in Malacañang.
Maritime security is high on their agenda.
In his speech before members of the Philippines-Japan Association, Abe stressed the importance of cooperation between the two nations as strategic partners.
He also noted that both countries will benefit from maritime cooperation to ensure the integrity of their sovereignty.
Philippine Ambassador to Japan Manolo Lopez was present during the event.
Earlier, Japan approved a loan that will allow the Philippine Coast Guard acquire 10 new patrol boats for delivery in the next 2 years.
The funding will come from the Japan International Cooperation Agency.
Details of the deal are expected to be finalized soon.
Abe will head back to Japan Saturday afternoon.
This is Abe's second visit to the Philippines as prime minister.
0 Comments