Duterte, Suga talk about South China Sea issues over phone call

President Rodrigo Duterte and Japan Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga.

MANILA, Philippines — President Rodrigo Duterte and Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga talked on the phone Wednesday in a “warm, engaging, and productive” call, discussing issues such as the South China Sea, sea piracy and terrorism, Malacañang said.

In a statement on Wednesday, the Palace said President Duterte emphasized the need for cooperation on promoting domain awareness, maritime security and safety, freedom of navigation and overflight and maritime connectivity and commerce.

Duterte also called for the “peaceful settlement” of disputes since the Asia-Pacific region “cannot afford conflicts between neighbors,” Malacañang said.

“President Duterte underscored that alliances and partnerships must redound to greater stability in the South China Sea and uphold the broader collective interest of the Asia-Pacific region,” it added.

In turn, Prime Minister Suga expressed his concern about developments in the East and South China Seas. He also expressed appreciation for the Philippines’ “principled position” articulated by Duterte during the 75th session of the United Nations General Assembly on the 2016 Arbitral Ruling, Malacañang said.

“Both leaders agreed to work closely to ensure security and stability in the region under the rule of law,” it added.

As for maritime security, Duterte said Sulu and Celebes Seas’ cooperation must continue to defend the area from piracy, terrorism, and transnational crimes.

Duterte and Suga have both said they want to ramp up their cooperation in these waters, Palace said.

Malacañang added that both leaders expressed concerns over developments in Myanmar and said they’d work closely together to improve the situation.

Suga earlier called off a planned visit to both the Philippines due to the COVID-19 situation in Japan.

READ: Japan PM to postpone visit to India, Philippines—media

Malacañang said President Duterte understood why the Japanese leader had to make the decision.

READ: Palace says it understands Japan PM Suga’s decision to call off PH visit

A Palace official said Duterte and Suga might instead hold a telesummit or a phone call after the visit was postponed.

READ: Duterte, Japan PM Suga to hold telesummit or phone call after visit was called off — official

Malacañang said the phone conversation between the two leaders lasted for about 20 minutes.

abc