Philippines, Japan start talks for intel-sharing deal as ties upgraded to highest-level
MANILA: The Philippines and Japan have upgraded bilateral ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and agreed to start talks toward an intelligence-sharing agreement, marking new milestones amid shared concerns over rising tensions in the South China Sea.
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi made the announcements at a joint press conference in Tokyo late on Thursday, following a meeting that coincided with the 70th anniversary of Philippine-Japan diplomatic relations.
“I am pleased to announce that we have elevated our relationship from a strengthened strategic partnership to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. This milestone reflects the strength, depth, and breadth of our ties as we respond to the evolving challenges and opportunities of our time,” Marcos said.
The ties upgrade refers to the highest-tier of diplomatic framework, which means cooperation on a broader range of areas, not just on strategic priorities. It is the Philippines’ first with any country.
