Philippines and Japan Conduct First Joint Military Exercises in South China Sea

The Philippines and Japan held their first joint military exercises in the South China Sea, aimed at enhancing regional cooperation. This collaboration follows similar exercises between Manila and Washington and comes after a landmark military pact between the Philippines and Japan. China claims significant parts of the South China Sea, causing regional disputes.

The Philippines and Japan held their first joint military exercises in the South China Sea on Friday, marking a significant step in regional collaboration against China's assertiveness.

The exercises, conducted within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone, followed similar drills with the United States earlier in the week. "This activity was part of ongoing efforts to strengthen regional and international cooperation towards a free and open Indo-Pacific," the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) noted in a statement. Last month, the Philippines and Japan signed a landmark military pact allowing the deployment of forces on each other's soil.

China lays claim to much of the South China Sea, a crucial route for northeast Asia's trade. Despite not having claims in the area, Japan is involved in a separate maritime dispute with China in the East China Sea. The joint exercise involved two vessels from each side, focusing on communications, tactical maneuvers, and a photographic exercise, according to the AFP.

(With inputs from agencies.)