Philippine Foreign Minister Manalo announced that he is coordinating with the Japanese side to hold the second Foreign Affairs and Defense Ministerial Consultation, or so-called "2+2," in Manila, the capital, by the end of this year. He expressed his desire to strengthen cooperation with Japan in the field of security.
On the 16th, Philippine Foreign Minister Manalo held a press conference with the Japanese media and agreed with the Japanese side that the so-called "2+2" ministerial talks on foreign affairs and defense between Japan and the Philippines would be held in the capital Manila later this year. It has been revealed that adjustments are being made.
If held, it would be the second time the talks have been held, following the first held in Tokyo in April of last year, but it would be the first time under the Marcos administration in the Philippines.
Regarding the talks, Foreign Minister Manalo said, ``It will be very meaningful to discuss the details of the cooperation agreed upon at the summit level,'' adding that security and economic cooperation will be on the agenda based on the summit meeting last November. He predicted that this would happen.
Regarding the ``facilitation agreement,'' in which the Self-Defense Forces and the Philippine military agree in advance on how to deal with joint training exercises, he said, ``I would like to conclude this as soon as possible.'' He expressed his desire to strengthen cooperation with Japan in these areas.