AMBASSADOR of Japan to the Philippines Koji Haneda hosted a reception for the 64th anniversary of the Japan Self-Defense Forces (JSDF) on June 28.
Some 250 distinguished guests, including former Presidents Fidel V. Ramos and Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, Philippine and Japanese government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, as well as Japanese residents, attended the reception to celebrate the founding of the JSDF and further strengthen relations between both nations.
In his welcome remarks, Haneda emphasized that Japan has reinforced its commitment to make greater contributions toward peace, stability and prosperity for the international community based on the principles of “proactive contribution to peace.”
He said Japan, now more than ever, is eager to continue working closely with the Philippines and all its key partners in upholding shared ideals of freedom and the rule of law in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond.
Regarding the recent Philippine-Japan defense cooperation and exchange, the ambassador noted the dynamism of relations between both nations. He cited the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force’s delivery of TC-90 aircraft to the Philippine Navy, the JSDF’s official participation in this year’s Balikatan exercises, and an agreement between Japan’s Ministry of Defense and the Philippine Department of National Defense to deliver UH-1H helicopter spare parts to the Philippine Air Force.
Haneda said he expects to see more of these as both nations continue to advance their defense cooperation.
Defense-related Japanese companies also took the opportunity to exhibit their defense equipment models and distribute brochures during the event.