Manila, September 11(HS): The Philippines and Japan have officially put into effect the Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) on September 11, marking a significant advancement in their defense collaboration amid rising tensions in the Indo-Pacific region. The defense pact permits troops from both countries to enter each other’s territories for joint training exercises, operational activities, and logistical support, enhancing interoperability and regional security coordination.

The agreement, signed initially in 2023 and fully ratified by the Philippines and Japan this year, is expected to expand joint military drills, technology sharing, and maritime cooperation under Japan’s Official Security Assistance program. Officials noted the strategic importance of the pact, with Defense Secretary Gilberto C. Teodoro Jr. and Japanese Defense Minister Nakatani Gen emphasizing their countries’ leadership role in regional defense, including as co-chairs of the ASEAN Defense Ministers’ Meeting-Plus working group on maritime security.

This move deepens bilateral ties as both nations confront evolving regional security challenges, notably China’s assertiveness in adjacent waters, while fostering peace and stability across the broader Indo-Pacific landscape. The RAA follows similar defense access agreements Japan has established with Australia and the United Kingdom, reinforcing a network of security partnerships in the region.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar