By Brian Jules Campued
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has praised outgoing Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Kazuhiko Koshikawa’s role in improving partnership between the two countries on defense and security, trade and investment, as well as infrastructure development.
During Koshikawa’s farewell call at Malacañan Palace on March 1, Marcos noted the enhanced relations under the outgoing Japanese ambassador’s tenure in the Philippines, particularly Japan’s assistance for the development of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
“It used to be just economic and trade, but in terms of security and defense, also that, and I’m glad that you mentioned the assistance that the Japanese, that Japan, rather, has given to the BARMM. It’s very – it has been very critical because as the elections come, it will be the first parliamentary election,” the President told Koshikawa.
The Chief Executive also recognized Japan’s contribution to developing the agriculture industry in the Philippines including coordination and communication between Japanese experts and the FIlipino farming sector.
During Koshiwaka’s tenure, the two nations have enhanced their defense and security cooperation through the existing dialogue mechanisms and witnessed the conclusion of the Official Security Assistance through brand new Coastal Radar Systems.
The Philippines and Japan have also maintained a robust strategic partnership and witnessed the laying down the groundwork for trilateral cooperation with the United States.
Meanwhile, Koshikawa said he is leaving his post with Japan and the Philippines “entering a new phase” in their bilateral ties.
“Japan will continue to support the Mindanao peace process, in particular, in the election scheduled next year. In this context, I think, the Japanese government is ready to consider the assistance necessary for the implementation of the election laws,” the Japanese envoy added.
He vowed to continue to support the infrastructure projects under the Marcos administration’s Build, Better, More program such as the Metro Manila Subway, North-South Commuter Railway, and the Davao Bypass Construction.
“Furthermore, maintaining a maritime order based on the rule of law is the most important common objective of most countries,” Koshikawa said.
The Philippines and Japan celebrated 67 years of relations on July 23, 2022 and 11 years of Strengthened Strategic Partnership since 2011. – avds
