Japan-Philippines Relations
Foreign Minister Kono Pays a Courtesy Call on the President of the Philippines
On August 8, commencing at 2:15 p.m. (local time) for approximately 40 minutes, Mr. Taro Kono, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, paid a courtesy call on H.E. Mr. Rodrigo R. Duterte, President of the Republic of the Philippines, in Manila, Philippines, where Minister Kono was visiting to attend the ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (AMM) and Related Meetings. The overview of the courtesy call is as follows.
1. Bilateral relations
Minister Kono stated that he was honored to meet with President Duterte, that he was grateful for the hospitality of the Government of the Philippines on this visit, and that he will make every effort to further strengthen the bilateral relationship as foreign minister. In addition, Minister Kono expressed support for the Philippines’ fight against terrorism in Mindanao. He stated that Japan will continue to provide assistance for the efforts undertaken by President Duterte in infrastructure development, measures against illegal drugs, public safety and counter-terrorism. He also noted that Japan will extend a yen loan for flood management in Cavite Province as part of this assistance.
President Duterte responded that he deeply appreciates Japan’s assistance and will continue to engage in efforts to promote the cordial relations between the two countries.
2. Regional issues
Minister Kono offered his congratulations to President Duterte on the 50th anniversary of ASEAN and the Philippines’ successful hosting of the AMM, and stated that he will continue to work closely with the Philippines for the success of the Summit this coming November. In response, President Duterte noted that the Philippines hopes to make the ASEAN Summit a success in coordination with Japan.
inister Kono and President Duterte also exchanged opinions regarding the issues of the South China Sea and North Korea, and agreed to closely cooperate on these issues.