Korean Media: Japan Gives Marcos Trump-Level Reception… Japan and Philippines Building Quasi-Alliance to Counter China

¬ State Guest Invitation, Emperor and Empress Greet at Entrance… Review Land Self-Defense Forces and Host Banquet Inside the Imperial Palace

On the 27th, Japan invited Philippine President Ferdinand "Ferdie" Marcos Jr. as a state guest and held a grand welcoming ceremony at the Imperial Palace. This marked the first state visit by a Philippine president to Japan since Benigno Aquino’s visit in 2015, 11 years later, to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the normalization of diplomatic relations between the two countries. Analysts suggest that in order to counterbalance China, Japan and the Philippines are engaging in cooperation at a quasi-alliance level, thus treating Marcos with hospitality comparable to that given to U.S. President Donald Trump.

That morning, the Marcos couple was invited to visit the Imperial Palace in Tokyo, where they reviewed the ceremonial guard of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force. Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako personally greeted them at the main entrance. Prince Fumihito, the Emperor’s younger brother (a title used for imperial family members), along with his wife, also attended and conversed with the Emperor and Empress in the reception hall.

The evening banquet was held at the Imperial Palace, hosted by the Emperor. The presence of His Imperial Highness Prince Hisahito, the eldest son of Prince Fumihito and second in line to the Chrysanthemum Throne (aged 20), drew particular attention. Last year, after entering university, Prince Hisahito increased his appearances at official events, but this marks the first time he has attended a state banquet for a foreign head of state. Analysts believe Japan views the Philippines as a strategic partner for future collaboration. On the 28th, Prime Minister Sanae Takeda will hold a summit meeting with Marcos, followed by a shared dinner.

Lately, Japan has been building a "quasi-allied" relationship with the Philippines. Japan is exporting weapons to strengthen the latter's military capabilities. Previously, Japan had supported the Philippines through various official aid programs, providing coast surveillance radars and large patrol vessels. After lifting restrictions on lethal weapon exports in April, Japan is now negotiating the export of the Abukuma-class frigates and the Maritime Self-Defense Force’s TC90 aircraft to the Philippines. Following Australia and the United Kingdom, Japan signed the RAA (Reciprocal Access Agreement) with the Philippines in 2024, allowing both nations’ military personnel to enter each other’s countries without visas. Based on this foundation, Japan has significantly participated in the multinational joint military exercise “Balikatan,” which concluded on the 8th and is led by the United States and the Philippines.

During the upcoming summit between the two leaders, key topics such as military cooperation and supply chain collaboration are expected to be discussed. Among Southeast Asian nations, Japan was the first to sign the GSOMIA (General Security of Military Information Agreement) with the Philippines, aimed at exchanging military intelligence. Additionally, discussions will focus on joint procurement and alternative transportation strategies to address potential crises in critical mineral and energy supply chains.

Source: Chosun Ilbo

Original Article: toutiao.com/article/1866415768849415/

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