On November 4, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida delivered a speech to the Philippine Congress, marking the first time a Japanese prime minister has done so. He emphasized strengthening ties with ASEAN, celebrating 50 years of friendship and cooperation with the organization. In December, Japan will host a special ASEAN summit in Tokyo, where Kishida plans to unveil a new vision for the future relationship between Japan and ASEAN.
A New Era of Prosperity with ASEAN
Prime Minister Kishida began by referencing the “Fukuda Doctrine,” an approach to Southeast Asia established by then-Prime Minister Takeo Fukuda in 1977. The doctrine promoted equal partnership and a bond of trust with ASEAN nations. Kishida honored former Philippine President Elpidio Quirino, who, despite losing family members in WWII, granted amnesty to Japanese war criminals. Kishida noted that the current relationship between Japan and the Philippines is founded on such past gestures of compassion, describing the bilateral ties as entering a “Golden Age.”
Looking ahead, Kishida emphasized practical and balanced solutions to global challenges, aiming to support ASEAN countries’ resilience and sustainability. He reiterated Japan’s commitment to assist with initiatives like establishing an ASEAN Infectious Disease Control Center.
During the December ASEAN special summit, Kishida aims to launch a vision for “a sustainable and prosperous new era” with ASEAN that builds trust for future generations.
Strengthening Security Cooperation with the Philippines
The day before the speech, Kishida held a summit with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., announcing that Japan’s Official Security Assistance (OSA) framework will provide coastal surveillance radar systems to the Philippines, marking the first application of this framework for an ally. Kishida stated, “We will continue to contribute to enhancing the Philippines’ security capabilities, fostering peace and stability in the region.” Both leaders also agreed to start negotiations on a Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) to facilitate cooperation between the Japan Self-Defense Forces and the Philippine Armed Forces.
Economic Development Prospects in the Philippines
In addition to strengthened security ties between Japan, the U.S., and the Philippines, the Philippines is experiencing rapid economic growth, with infrastructure projects advancing at a swift pace, particularly in metropolitan areas like Manila.
Our Philippine Ventures
Our company has benefited from this strong friendship between Japan and the Philippines. With our poultry farming and other projects steadily expanding, E.PARTNERS Co., Ltd. officially registered its local subsidiary with the Philippine Securities and Exchange Commission in September.
With a population exceeding 113 million, the Philippines is the sixth most populous nation in Asia, boasting an average age of 24. The country holds immense potential for future development. We are excited to grow alongside the Philippines, and we appreciate your continued support and cooperation as we pursue our future ventures together.
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