Japan Prime Minister backs Duterte on West Philippine Sea

MANILA, Philippines — Amid the concerns over the West Philippine Sea, Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga has expressed support for President Duterte’s stance, aired before the United Nations General Assembly last year, that the 2016 arbitral ruling that invalidated China’s claims in disputed waters should be respected in the international arena.

According to Malacañang, Suga “expressed appreciation for the Philippines’ principled position clearly articulated by President Duterte during the 75th session of the United Nations General Assembly on the 2016 Arbitral Ruling.”

Both leaders agreed to work closely to ensure security and stability in the region under the rule of law.

Duterte and Suga talked over the phone on Wednesday after the Japanese leader lamented the postponement of his visit in the Philippines so he could focus on his country’s response to the coronavirus pandemic.

In a dispatch by the Office of the Presidential Protocol, Suga not only recognized the importance of the arbitral ruling but also expressed concern over developments in the East and South China Seas.

Duterte, who has publicly said he cannot declare war against China to assert the arbitral ruling, impressed upon Suga the need to take the peaceful route in addressing the South China Sea disputes.

In a dispatch last night, Duterte stressed the need for nations to cooperate in promoting maritime domain awareness, maritime security and safety, freedom of navigation and overflight, and maritime connectivity and commerce.

At the same time, Duterte underlined the need to recognize and work for the peaceful settlement of disputes, stating that the Asia-Pacific region cannot afford conflicts among neighbors.

During the talk, Duterte underscored that alliances and partnerships must redound to greater stability in the South China Sea and uphold the broader collective interest of the Asia-Pacific region.

Both the President and Prime Minister looked forward to seeing each other in Manila as soon as circumstances allow to renew and reaffirm the Philippines-Japan Strategic Partnership and valuable ties of friends closer than brothers.

The phone conversation between President Duterte and Prime Minister Suga lasting 20 minutes was warm, engaging and productive.