Philippines’ President Benigno Aquino shakes hands with Japan’s Prime Minister Shinzo Abe (right) at the start of their meeting at the prime minister’s official residence in Tokyo. — AFP photo
TOKYO: Japan and the Philippines yesterday jointly stressed the need to use “the rule of law” to solve regional disputes, at a time when both countries are embroiled in separate rows with China.
The comments, which came during a one-day trip to Tokyo by Philippine President Benigno Aquino, highlight how regional neighbours are forging alliances to counter an increasingly muscular Beijing as it presses its influence in nearby waters.
Tokyo and Manila, former World War II enemies, have been drawn closer in recent years as they have tackled their parallel disputes with China.
“In the face of the regional situation becoming severe, both nations are closely coordinating,” Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe told reporters in a joint news conference after a summit with Aquino.
“I reaffirmed with President Aquino today the significance of… the rule of law,” Japan’s conservative premier added.
Aquino also said his visit to Japan was focusing on “the challenge of safeguarding our regional security by advancing the rule of law to protect our global and regional common interest.” — AFP