Kerry: US pledges $40M to boost PH maritime security | Global News

Kerry: US pledges $40M to boost PH maritime security

By: - NewsLab Lead / @MSantosINQ
/ 05:43 PM December 17, 2013

U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry. AP FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines – United States (US) Secretary of State John Kerry announced Tuesday that it has committed $40 million in improving the Philippines maritime awareness and security capabilities.

“We have committed $40 million for a new initiative to improve the Philippines maritime security and maritime domain awareness,” Kerry said in a joint press conference with Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario Tuesday.

Article continues after this advertisement

The $40 million grant will be over the course of three years under the US Global Security Contingency Fund which will enhance the country’s law enforcement capabilities to secure its maritime borders and to combat terrorism.

FEATURED STORIES

“The US is committed to working with the Philippines to address its most pressing security challenges, that’s why we are negotiating a strong and enduring framework agreement that would enhance defense cooperation under our alliance,”

He reiterated its commitment to the security of the Philippines amid escalating regional tensions caused by China’s territorial claims and its establishment of an Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ) in the East China Sea.

Article continues after this advertisement

Kerry is in the Philippines for the first time as Secretary of State for the final part of his tour across Asia. He previously visited Vietnam and the city of Ramallah in the Middle East.

Article continues after this advertisement

He will also travel to areas devastated by super typhoon Yolanda (international name Haiyan) to see first-hand the relief efforts conducted by the US military and aid agencies.

Article continues after this advertisement

The Philippines and several of its neighbors are involved in a territorial dispute with China, which has been growing more assertive in its claims.

Early in 2013, the Philippines filed for an arbitration case before the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague, Netherlands over China’s claim in the West Philippine Sea.

Article continues after this advertisement

China has refused to participate in the proceedings insisting on bilateral talks.

Related stories

John Kerry to visit PH in Obama’s stead

Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.
Your subscription has been successful.

Subscribe to our daily newsletter

By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy.

Kerry’s visit to Tacloban City confirmed

For comprehensive coverage, in-depth analysis, visit our special page for West Philippine Sea updates. Stay informed with articles, videos, and expert opinions.

TAGS: China, Features, Global Nation, John Kerry, West Philippine Sea, Yolanda

Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.
Your subscription has been successful.

Subscribe to our newsletter!

By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy.

© Copyright 1997-2024 INQUIRER.net | All Rights Reserved

This is an information message

We use cookies to enhance your experience. By continuing, you agree to our use of cookies. Learn more here.