Obama, Aquino to tackle defense, China during state visit

US President Barack Obama (right) and President Aquino MALACAÑANG FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines – The world can expect Philippine President Benigno Aquino III and United States President Barack Obama to talk about defense and maritime disputes in the West Philippine Sea when the latter visits the country this month, Malacañang said Tuesday.

“Well, defense and security will definitely be a topic in the talks between President Aquino and President Obama. And when you talk of this topic, the most relevant issue that can be discussed would be the West Philippine Sea,” Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma said in a Palace press briefing.

Coloma said the Philippines’ maritime dispute with China will most likely be tackled during Obama’s visit.

However, he denied that it was the reason why the government has been engaging in talks with the US over its proposed rotational military presence in the country.

“The West Philippine Sea does not represent the totality of our national interest or our national security concerns. The agreement for enhanced defense cooperation between the Philippines and the US must be viewed within the context of the fact that the Philippines has strategic partnership with the United States,” Coloma said.

Obama is expected to arrive in the Philippines in late April, following his state visits to Japan, South Korea and Malaysia.

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