Japan, Philippines Begin Talks on Military Information-Sharing Pact

Tokyo and Manila moved to deepen defense cooperation amid growing security concerns in the South China Sea and around Taiwan.

Japan's Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa and Philippines Defense Minister Gilberto Teodoro after signing the reciprocal access agreement at the Malacanang Palace in Manila, Philippines, on July 8, 2024. Lisa Marie David/Reuters

Japan and the Philippines said Thursday that they would begin negotiations on a military information-sharing agreement, deepening security ties as both countries face growing tensions with China in nearby waters.

The announcement came after talks in Tokyo between Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., according to statements released by Japan’s foreign ministry and the Philippine Presidential Communications Office.