US vows to defend Philippines in South China Sea

WORLD, April 12 (YPA) – The United States vowed on Wednesday to defend the Philippines in the South China Sea, where the two countries are conducting largest joint military exercises aimed at countering China’s influence in the region.

Nearly 18,000 troops are taking part in the annual exercises dubbed Balikatan, or “shoulder to shoulder” in Filipino, which for the first time will include a live-fire drill in the South China Sea, which Beijing claims almost entirely.

In rare joint talks in Washington with their Philippine counterparts, Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin discussed a deal reached last week for US forces to use a growing number of bases in the Philippines, including one near Taiwan.

Blinken said the United States affirmed its “unwavering commitment to standing with the Philippines against any intimidation or coercion, including in the South China Sea.”

Austin said new exercises would take place in the South China Sea “later this year” and would involve other countries.

E.M