Japan and Philippines Agree to Launch Expert-Level Talks on Destroyer Exports
Kyodo
Japan and the Philippines have agreed to launch expert-level negotiations on exporting used destroyers, a move driven by shared concerns over China's assertive actions in the South China Sea. The deal aims to boost Manila's naval modernization and solidify bilateral defense ties.
Japan and the Philippines on May 2 agreed to set up an expert-level negotiation framework for the export of used destroyers to the Philippines, as reported by Kyodo News.
The agreement, announced after talks between officials from both countries, reflects mutual concern over China's growing activities in the South China Sea. The move marks a new step in bilateral defense cooperation, which has been actively strengthened in recent years.
Under the agreement, the two sides will conduct expert-level dialogues to discuss the technical, legal, and financial conditions related to the transfer of warships. This is part of Japan's efforts to bolster the defense capabilities of regional partners while also advancing its domestic defense industry.
The Philippines had earlier expressed a need to modernize its naval forces amid increasingly complex sovereignty disputes in the South China Sea. Receiving destroyers from Japan is expected to help Manila enhance its patrol and maritime protection capabilities.
