Thurs, June 18, 2009

Japan-Philippines Summit Meeting

Prime Minister Taro Aso held talks with Her Excellency Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, President of the Republic of the Philippines, at the Prime Minister's Office.

At the meeting, the leaders exchanged views on matters such as Japan-Philippines bilateral relations, the current economic crisis, the North Korean issue, and climate change. Prime Minister Aso said, "Japan intends to further strengthen its relations with the Philippines, which have entered a new stage upon the entry into force of the economic partnership agreement, so as to foster a strategic partnership for the future on the basis of President Arroyo's visit to Japan."

Later, the leaders attended the signing ceremony for the Japan-Philippines Joint Statement "Fostering a Strategic Partnership for the Future between Close Neighbors." After signing the joint statement, the leaders held a joint press conference. Prime Minister Aso said, "It is my great pleasure today to welcome Her Excellency Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, President of the Republic of the Philippines, here in Japan. President Arroyo and I had a frank and friendly discussion on our cooperation in bilateral relations and in the international community. Accordingly, we have just signed a joint statement to foster a strategic partnership for the future between close neighbors."

Related Link

• Japan-Philippines Joint Statement "Fostering a Strategic Partnership for the Future between Close Neighbors" (Ministry of Foreign Affairs)
• Japan-Philippines Relations (Ministry of Foreign Affairs)