Along with China’s growing threat in the South China Sea, the US Coast Guard, Japan, and the Philippines launched their first joint naval exercise this week.
Armand Balilo, the spokesman of the Philippine Coast Guard, said that this exercise will be held by US and Japan from June 1 to 7 in the waters of Bataan state, and Australia will join them as an observer member.
Four Philippine ships, one American ship and one Japanese ship are participating in a drill designed for search and rescue and law enforcement operations.
US Coast Guard Captain Brian Krautler said that America and its allies are committed to an open and free Pacific Ocean.
“The more countries we have, they are committed to the same ideas for a free and open Pacific Ocean. The ability to enforce our own nation’s laws and national sovereignty. The stronger we can be as a team.”
In February, Japan and the United States discussed with the Philippines holding this joint naval drill.
At the same time, the Philippines has accused China of aggressive activities in the South China Sea.
However, this drill has met with a strong reaction from Chinese officials, and Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Mao Ning said that the United States and its allies should refrain from taking actions that harmed and targeted specific parties.
“As the military relations between the United States and Japan, we always advocate military cooperation should fast and foremost be conducive to regional peace and stability. And not targeted harm the interest of other parties.”
While Japan, Australia, and the United States have repeatedly condemned the “militarization” of the South China Sea by Beijing, and since last year, they have tried to increase their interaction with the Philippines; which has always been condemned by China.
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