Philippines and Vietnam Forge Defence Agreement Amid South China Sea Tensions

The Philippines and Vietnam are set to sign a defence cooperation agreement, a significant move against China's actions in the South China Sea. Vietnamese Defence Minister Phan Van Giang met Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. This pact aims to enhance defence and maritime cooperation amid rising tensions in the region.

The Philippines and Vietnam are poised to sign a defence cooperation agreement on Friday, according to the office of Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. This marks a significant step by two nations that have long opposed China's actions in the South China Sea. On Friday, Vietnamese Defence Minister Phan Van Giang held talks in Manila with his Philippine counterpart, Gilberto Teodoro, and paid a courtesy call to Marcos earlier in the day.

"We now talk about defence cooperation, security cooperation, maritime cooperation, and certainly, on the area of trade as well," Marcos stated, emphasizing the broad spectrum of collaboration the agreement aims to cover. While specific details of the defence agreement were not disclosed, Marcos indicated that the visit would push to deepen bilateral relations.

The agreement occurs amidst simmering tensions in the South China Sea and international concerns about China's coastguard activities in the exclusive economic zones of its neighbors. Vietnam faces a delicate balancing act in opposing China's actions while maintaining crucial relations forged over decades. Meanwhile, the Philippines and China continue their frequent confrontations over the disputed waters.

(With inputs from agencies.)