President Duterte To Japanese Prime Minister Suga: “We cannot afford conflicts between neighbors”
President Rodrigo Duterte told Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga that the Philippines “cannot afford conflicts between neighbors” as they discussed maritime safety and security in the Asia-Pacific region during their phone conversation on Wednesday.
Malacañang made the statement after President Duterte had a 20-minute phone conversation with Japanese Prime Minister Suga following the cancelation of his Philippine visit that would have taken place this month.
In a statement, Malacañang said President Duterte stressed the need for nations to cooperate on promoting maritime domain awareness, maritime safety and security, freedom of navigation and overflight, and maritime connectivity and commerce.
President Duterte likewise underlined the need to recognize and to work for the peaceful settlement of disputes, stating that the Asia-Pacific region can’t afford conflicts between neighbors.
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According to Malacañang, Japanese Prime Minister Suga expressed appreciation for President Duterte’s stand during the 75th session of the United Nations General Assembly on the 2016 Arbitral Ruling.
Japanese Prime Minister Suga also expressed concern over developments in the East and South China Seas while recognizing the importance of the Arbitral Ruling.
“Both leaders agreed to work closely to ensure security and stability in the region under the rule of law,” Malacañang said.
President Duterte’s discussion with Japanese Prime Minister Suga about the disputed waters came following the ongoing tension in the West Philippine Sea because of recent Chinese vessel incursions in the area.
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