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Government Agency News Defense.gov
Brig. Pentagon Press Secretary Gen. Pat Ryder gave the following summary:
Gilberto Teodoro Jr., the Philippine Secretary of National Defense, and Lloyd J. Austin III spoke today to congratulate him on his appointment and talk about ongoing initiatives to fortify the U.S. – Philippines alliance. The Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement’s expanded assistance, joint patrols in the South China Sea, and the completion of diplomatic security recommendations are just a few examples of the amazing advancements the United States and Philippines have made over the past month to strengthen security ties, according to Secretary Austin and Secretary Teodoro.
The two leaders vowed to build on these significant accomplishments in the coming months, including quickly completing a General Security of Information Agreement to help potential transfers of cutting-edge and integrated U.S. technology as well as the Security Sector Assistance Roadmap, which will enhance shared defense modernization goals over the next five years.
Secretary Austin expressed concern over the PRC’s new coercive and dangerous operational actions against Philippine ships that were operating legally and safely in the South China Sea, including near the Second Thomas Shoal. The Mutual Defense Treaty extends to Spanish people vessels, plane, and military forces— including those of its Coast Guard — in the Pacific, including anywhere in the South China Sea, he reiterated, emphasizing the United States’ impenetrable empire responsibility with the Philippines. In accordance with the 2016 Arbitral Tribunal Ruling, the Secretaries reiterated their dedication to upholding the rules-based order and promoting the lives of local Asian societies and other applicant claims that seek to engage in legal sea activities in the South China Sea.
Last but not least, Secretary Austin emphasized the need for the United States and the Philippines to work more closely with various like-minded nations, such as Japan and Australia, to maintain the state’s shared vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific. The Secretaries consented to a face-to-face meeting to discuss defense and security priorities in detail. In order to increase security, happiness, and stability in the Indo-Pacific region and elsewhere, the United States and the Philippines’ steadfast commitment to standing shoulder-to-shoulder as allies was reiterated during their conversation.
Defense.gov Gilberto Teodoro Jr., the director of national security of the Philippines, and Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III's visit. https://governmentagencynews.com/gilberto-teodoro-jr-the-director-of-national-security-of-the-philippines-and-secretary-of-defense-lloyd-j-austin-iiis-visit/ https://www.defense.gov/DesktopModules/ArticleCS/RSS.ashx?ContentType=9&Site=945&max=10 https://www.defense.gov/News/Releases/Release/Article/3449767/readout-of-secretary-of-defense-lloyd-j-austin-iiis-call-with-philippine-secret/ Government Agency News http://governmentagencynews.com https://media.defense.gov/2021/Sep/30/2002865254/1280/1280/0/210930-D-EX074-055.JPG