Biden reaffirms ‘ironclad’ commitment to defense of PH

Bilateral talks between Pres. Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and US President Joe Biden.

NEW YORK CITY — United States President Joe Biden on Thursday reaffirmed to President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. the US government’s “ironclad” commitment to the defense of the Philippines.

This is according to the readout of the bilateral meeting between the two leaders, which was released by the White House.

“The leaders reflected on the importance of the U.S.-Philippines alliance. President Biden reaffirmed the United States’ ironclad commitment to the defense of the Philippines,” the White House said.

Marcos Jr. and Biden also discussed the situation in the South China Sea, emphasizing their support for freedom of navigation and overflight and the peaceful resolution of disputes.

They also tackled opportunities to expand bilateral cooperation, particularly in energy security, climate action, and infrastructure, the White House said.

“The leaders also discussed Russia’s war against Ukraine and its implications for energy prices and food security, as well as ASEAN (Association of Southeast Nations) matters, the crisis in Burma, and the importance of respect for human rights,” the White House added.

Marcos and Biden held a bilateral meeting on Thursday, the first between the two nations in years.

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