(Reuters/Eloisa Lopez)
MANILA — The foreign ministers of the Philippines and Japan met on Thursday to reiterate their commitment to uphold the international rules-based order, especially in the South China Sea, Manila’s top diplomat said.
“We both recognize the value of promoting the rule of law, including the freedom of navigation and overflight, especially in the South China Sea,” Philippine Foreign Secretary Theresa Lazaro told a press conference, adding that Japan was a vital strategic partner.
Her remarks came after the signing of a series of agreements with visiting Japanese counterpart Toshimitsu Motegi.
—Reporting by Mikhail Flores; Writing by Martin Petty; Editing by David Stanway
