Japan's PM Kishida strengthens alliances amid maritime tensions on Philippine patrol ship tour
Japan's Prime Minister joins Philippine patrol ship in a symbolic gesture of solidarity, strengthening regional alliances against China's assertiveness in maritime disputes, reported ABC News.Prime Minister Fumio Kishida concluded his two-day visit to Manila with a symbolic visit to the Japanese-built BRP Teresa Magbanua, which was docked at Manila harbor. During his visit, he discussed defense cooperation with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., emphasizing their mutual concerns about China's actions in the region."I truly hope that this will lead to regional peace and prosperity as well as a free and open Indo-Pacific,” Kishida addressed senior Philippine government and coast guard officials on board the Magbanua, one of Manila's largest patrol ships, which is part of the city's financially constrained coast guard.
