Kamala Harris emphasized the need for U.S. support for the Philippines against Chinese actions in the West Philippine Sea during a call with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. She reiterated the U.S. commitment to enforcing international norms and strengthening bilateral ties, particularly in the context of security and prosperity. The conversation highlighted the positive trajectory of U.S.-Philippine relations and the importance of trilateral cooperation with Japan.

Former United States Vice President Kamala Harris has reiterated the necessity of the United States maintaining its commitment to defend the Philippines against ongoing Chinese provocations in the West Philippine Sea. During a recent telephone discussion with President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., Harris emphasized the significance of solidarity in the face of Beijing’s aggressive actions in the maritime region, underscoring the U.S.’s responsibility to enforce international norms and assure security in the area.

Harris reflected on her landmark visit to the Philippines, noting that her trip to Palawan highlighted the vulnerabilities faced in the region and strengthened President Joe Biden’s resolve to fortify U.S.-Philippine relations, especially regarding security initiatives. She acknowledged the bipartisan support within the U.S. Congress for bolstering these ties, which she believes are crucial for both nations’ prosperity and collaboration.

In response, President Marcos expressed his appreciation for Harris’s reaffirmation of U.S. support, highlighting the impressive progress and productivity of U.S.-Philippine relations over the past two years. Marcos cited the trilateral cooperation agreement with Japan as a significant factor in enhancing regional security and pointed out the positive shift in dynamics within the South China Sea as a result of these partnerships.

Furthermore, discussions regarding the first leader-level trilateral meeting held in Jakarta in September 2023 reflected the importance of collaborative efforts to address modern security challenges in the Indo-Pacific region, further solidifying U.S. commitment to its allies in the Asia-Pacific.

The context of this discussion centers on the geopolitics surrounding the South China Sea, a region marked by conflicting territorial claims, particularly between China and the Philippines. The United States has historically supported the Philippines in its territorial disputes due to existing defense agreements and the preservation of maritime norms. The recent initiatives, including Harris’s visit and subsequent dialogue with President Marcos, exemplify ongoing U.S. involvement in regional security and diplomatic relations in the Indo-Pacific.

The dialogue between Kamala Harris and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. underscores the enduring commitment of the United States to support the Philippines amid rising tensions with China in the West Philippine Sea. With a focus on enhancing diplomatic ties and regional security cooperation, both leaders recognize the significance of their partnership in addressing contemporary challenges. This interaction reinforces the U.S. stance on international maritime norms and the importance of solidarity among allies.

Original Source: www.gmanetwork.com

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