US Defence Secretary reaffirms alliance commitment during visit to Philippines
U.S. Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth reaffirmed Washington’s strong commitment to its alliance with the Philippines during his official visit to the Southeast Asian country on Friday.
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr (left) meets with US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth in Manila on March 28. Photo courtesy of AFP/VNA.
During talks with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in Manila, both sides underlined the importance of bilateral cooperation in defence and security, and reaffirmed their shared commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
Hegseth reiterated the U.S.'s “ironclad” commitment to the Mutual Defence Treaty with the Philippines, stressing the treaty’s vital role as a deterrent to safeguard regional peace and security.
For his part, President Marcos described the visit as a strong message of both countries’ commitment to furthering cooperation in maintaining peace across the Indo-Pacific.
The Philippines marks Hegseth’s first stop on his tour of Asia since taking office as U.S. Secretary of Defence.
The visit comes as the administration of President Donald Trump continues efforts to strengthen ties with allies throughout the Asia-Pacific region.
According to schedule, Japan will be the next stop of Hegseth.
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