The White House has expressed deep concern over China's activities in the South China Sea as President Joe Biden gears up to convene a historic meeting with two key Asian allies. Biden is poised to hold the first-ever summit with the leaders of the US, Japan, and the Philippines, with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and Filipino President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. visiting the White House.
Both Japan and the Philippines have ongoing territorial disputes with China, involving the Senkaku Islands and the South China Sea, respectively. Tensions between the Philippines and China have centered on Second Thomas Shoal, located within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone.
Recent clashes have occurred as China Coast Guard ships have confronted Philippine resupply boats near the shoal, resulting in injuries to Filipino sailors and vessel damage. The meeting aims to address Chinese aggression in the region, with discussions planned on the South China Sea.
Japan has been a key partner in Biden's Indo-Pacific strategy, with Prime Minister Kishida committing to bolstering defense capabilities and supporting Ukraine amid Russia's invasion. The US has also pledged to assist the Philippines in modernizing its military, including new infrastructure projects and increased defense spending.
Notably, the White House is set to announce a new infrastructure initiative in the Philippines, including the development of a rail and shipping corridor between Clark Air Base and Subic Naval Base. This move is intended to signal support for the Philippines amid tensions with China.
Prior to the summit, joint maritime military exercises involving the US, Japan, Philippines, and Australia were conducted near the Philippines' Exclusive Economic Zone in response to alleged harassment by Chinese ships. Additionally, the White House plans to unveil investments in Open Radio Access Network technology and announce upcoming Coast Guard patrols in the Indo-Pacific.
