The three leaders expressed “serious concerns” about China’s “dangerous and aggressive behavior” within the South China Sea, through which trade price greater than $3 trillion a yr passes by ships and is linked to numerous maritime disputes between China and other countries.
Still, Marcos said the summit was “not directed against any country” but focused on deepening economic and security relations between Manila, Washington and Tokyo.
Duterte says China has threatened war within the South China Sea if the establishment is just not maintained
Duterte says China has threatened war within the South China Sea if the establishment is just not maintained
Marcos also said the business deals reached by the Philippines on the summit wouldn’t affect China’s investments within the country.
“This [trilateral agreement] is separate from any proposed or potential Chinese investment within the Philippines. As I see it, what impact will it have? “I do not think it would have an effect by some means,” he said.
China claims almost all the South China Sea, despite the fact that a 2016 ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration found that Beijing’s far-reaching claims had no legal basis.
Beijing on Thursday summoned Manila’s ambassador to the country and a Japanese embassy official to oppose what its foreign ministry described as “negative comments” about China.
The deepening dispute between China and the Philippines coincides with increased security engagement with the United States under Marcos, including increased U.S. access to bases within the Philippines, in addition to with Japan, which is predicted to sign a reciprocal military pact with Manila.
Biden has asked Congress for a further $128 million for infrastructure projects at bases within the Philippines.
Marcos also expressed confidence that possible investment deals price around $100 billion in the following five to 10 years from the summit will come to fruition.
While in Washington, Marcos also met with Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, who assured him of continued U.S. support.
“All of this cooperation is critical to our collective security and lasting prosperity across the region,” Austin said, reaffirming Biden’s strong defense commitment.
