President Biden pledges unwavering support for the Philippines against Chinese aggression in the South China Sea
In a bold declaration, President Joe Biden has promised that the United States will stand by the Philippines and defend them against any attacks in the South China Sea, emphasizing the unwavering nature of their support for Manila.
Biden’s strong statements come at a time of escalating tensions and frequent clashes between Chinese and Philippine coast guard vessels in the contested waters of the South China Sea.
Since 1951, the US and the Philippines have maintained a mutual defense treaty, which Biden reaffirmed in his remarks.
China, however, has consistently pointed fingers at the US for escalating tensions in the region, despite their own provocative actions.
During trilateral discussions at the White House with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr, Biden explicitly stated that any aggression against Philippine assets in the South China Sea would trigger the mutual defense treaty between the US and the Philippines.
President Marcos’s visit to Washington follows recent incidents where Chinese vessels engaged in risky maneuvers near disputed areas like the Second Thomas Shoal, raising concerns about China’s aggressive behavior in the region.
While not directly naming China, the leaders emphasized their commitment to upholding the rules-based international order in the South China Sea.
China, on the other hand, continues to dismiss criticism of its actions and blames the US for stoking tensions in the Indo-Pacific region.
Despite the challenges, the US, Japan, and the Philippines are looking to enhance their trilateral defense cooperation, which includes plans for joint naval exercises.
The trilateral meeting follows a series of agreements between the US and Japan aimed at strengthening defense ties and addressing the threat posed by China.
These agreements involve expanding air defense networks with Australia, establishing joint command structures, and conducting joint military exercises with the UK.
While maintaining a willingness to engage in dialogue and cooperation with China on shared challenges, both the US and Japan are prepared to address any provocations from China in the region.
