Japan and Philippines to start talks on intelligence-sharing pact
Japan and the Philippines have announced the launch of formal negotiations on an intelligence-sharing pact that will deepen maritime security cooperation. The agreement aims to strengthen the regional alliance architecture against Chinese influence in the South China Sea.
Japan's Foreign Ministry and the Philippines' Foreign Affairs Department announced in a joint statement that formal negotiations have begun for a 'General Security of Military Information Agreement' (GSOMIA) between the two countries. The talks will pave the way for a ministerial-level 2+2 meeting expected in Tokyo in September. The agreement will follow the framework Japan has previously signed with the United States, Australia, the United Kingdom and South Korea.
The agreement will primarily cover the sharing of intelligence on vessel movements, airspace violations and cyber threats affecting the Philippines' exclusive economic zone in the South China Sea. Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr said the agreement between Manila and Tokyo 'will strengthen not just alliance ties but also the rules-based order'. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian voiced 'firm objection' to the deal and said Beijing would 'take necessary countermeasures'.
Japan's Defence Ministry said it will propose a technical annex granting the Philippine Navy access to 12 advanced surveillance satellites by 2027. The Philippine Navy's annual modernisation budget rose from $2.8 billion last year to $4.1 billion. US State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce said Washington 'fully supports' the agreement and emphasised the importance of complementary cooperation among Quad members.
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