09 May 2014- Japan Parliamentary Senior Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs Norio Mitsuya called on Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert F. del Rosario on May 8 to discuss a wide range of bilateral, regional and international issues.

During the call, Parliamentary Senior Vice-Minister Mitsuya stressed the important partnership between the Philippines and Japan as both countries confront similar challenges in the region while sharing common values of freedom and democracy. He emphasized Japan’s support for the Philippines’ arbitration case as it adheres to international law. Mr. Mitsuya also welcomed the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement between the Philippines and the United States.

In response, Secretary del Rosario expressed his appreciation for Japan’s support for the Philippines’ arbitration case which seeks to find a peaceful resolution to the dispute in the West Philippine Sea. He welcomed the United States-Japan Joint Statement, issued during US President Barack Obama’s visit to Japan and which called on claimant countries in the South China Sea to clarify their claims in accordance with international law, including the use of international arbitration in settling maritime disputes. Secretary del Rosario also took the opportunity to thank Japan for its continued support for the capacity enhancement of the Philippine Coast Guard.

The two also agreed to further cooperate in promoting trade and investments between the Philippines and Japan, including exploring ways to resolve issues and improve the business environment, and to facilitate the deployment of Filipino nurses and caregivers to Japan. They also affirmed support for each other in the international legal and cultural fora. END