Defense ministers agree to help the Philippines increase its defense capabilities

Defense ministers from Japan, the United States and Australia have agreed to help the Philippines increase its defense capabilities as part of their efforts to create a free and open Indo-Pacific region. The agreement was reached at a quadrilateral defense meeting held on Saturday in Singapore.

Speaking at the opening of the meeting, Nakatani said China has been increasing its activities in the East and South China Seas. He expressed his hope to have a full debate among the four nations on defense cooperation. The four officials acknowledged the need to protect the freedom of navigation and overflight, and agreed to export equipment to the Philippines.