●I am visiting the Philippines as Japanese Prime Minister, which has not taken place for 6 and half years. I had a highly productive meeting with President Aquino, exchanging views in a very candid manner. I thank President for his warm hospitality.
●As a result of the Upper House election, my Government was able to obtain trust and confidence in our policies from the people of Japan. Against this background, I intend to pursue strategic diplomacy which contributes to peace and prosperity of the region and the world. In this context, I will attach particular importance to the relationship with the ASEAN. This is what I told President Aquino.
●The Philippines is our strategic partner, with which we share fundamental values and many strategic interests. In order to further strengthen the relationship with the Philippines, I announced in the meeting the “ Four Initiatives” of Japanese diplomacy toward the Philippines.
●First, to foster together vibrant economy:
I continue to have a high expectation that President will decide on the adoption of Japanese system of digital terrestrial TV. I agreed with President to promote cooperation in transportation and traffic infrastructure in Metro Manila. I also announced provision of 10 billion yen under a newly-established “Stand-by Emergency Credit for Urgent Recovery” (SECURE) to assist in recovery from disaster.
●Second, to promote cooperation in maritime affairs:
I confirmed continuation of our capacity building assistance to the Philippine Coast Guard and announced that we would provide 10 patrol vessels through yen loan.
●Third , to strengthen assistance to Mindanao Peace Process:
We produced a topographic map of Mindanao which is significant in showing various topographic features with high resolution. I will later hand it over to President so that it can be effectively used for future economic development of Mindanao.
●Fourth, to strongly promote people to people exchange:
To promote tourism, in addition to relaxation of visa regulations which has started from this month, we plan to expand civil aviation links, including increase in regular flights between the two countries. We will also enhance youth exchange through “JENESYS 2.0” program, in order to promote mutual understanding.
- The relationship between Japan and the Philippines is rooted in a long history of friendship and exchange. I am determined to pursue further strengthening of the relations by way of this “Four Initiatives”
|
