Philippines and Japan strengthen defense ties at ASEAN meeting

The Philippines and Japan have strengthened their defense ties during a meeting between their defense leaders at the ASEAN Defense Ministers’ Meeting in Laos. Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. and Japanese Defense Minister Nakatani Gen discussed deeper collaboration. Teodoro emphasized the importance of joint production and technology transfers, following the recent signing of a defense revitalization act. He invited Nakatani to visit the Philippines next year to further enhance their partnership. The 18th ADMM, which began on November 20, focuses on peace, security, and resilience in the region. The meeting also included commemorative events for ASEAN's relations with Australia and South Korea.