Japan and the Philippines to Launch Formal Negotiations on Military Information Security Agreement; Duterte to Receive Japan's Highest Honor During His Visit to Japan

Japan and the Philippines to Launch Formal Negotiations on the Military Information Security Agreement; President Marcos Jr. to be Awarded the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Chrysanthemum

According to Nikkei Asia, Japan and the Philippines will officially initiate negotiations on an information security agreement that would allow both sides to exchange classified security data. The report indicates that, in response to considerations regarding Beijing, Tokyo and Manila—two U.S. allies in Asia—aim to establish a framework for sharing sensitive intelligence and strengthen cooperation with Washington. If finalized, this would be the first such agreement between Japan and a Southeast Asian nation.

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. will visit Japan from Tuesday to Friday next week as a state guest. It is expected that Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba will meet with Marcos Jr. on Thursday and agree to formally launch negotiations on the General Security of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA). This agreement would establish rules ensuring that confidential defense information shared between the two governments remains protected and not disclosed to third parties.

The GSOMIA provides a legal framework for the secure exchange of sensitive military intelligence. The United States has already signed a similar agreement with the Philippines; signing a comparable pact with Japan would establish a trilateral framework among the three countries.

It is reported that Japan has already concluded such agreements with approximately 10 countries and organizations, including the United States, the United Kingdom, India, and South Korea. Japan has also exported surveillance radar systems to the Philippines, enabling deeper security cooperation through monitoring data collected by Philippine authorities.

In addition, the Japanese government stated on Friday that Ferdinand Marcos Jr. will be awarded one of Japan’s highest honors—the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Chrysanthemum—during his four-day state visit to Japan next week.

Cabinet Secretary Takashi Kiuchi said at a press briefing that the decision was made by the Cabinet. He also revealed that Mrs. Luisa Araneta-Marcos, the wife of President Marcos Jr., will be awarded the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Precious Crown.

President Marcos Jr.’s visit, beginning on Tuesday, will include meetings with Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, Emperor Naruhito, and Empress Masako.

Insiders reveal that Japanese and Philippine leaders plan to elevate their bilateral relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership during their upcoming meeting. Marcos Jr. will become the first state guest to visit Japan since Brazilian President Lula in March 2025.

Source: rfi

Original article: toutiao.com/article/1865966954306649/

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