Japan, Philippines bilateral cooperation indispensable

From Update.Ph (May 3): Japan, Philippines bilateral cooperation indispensable

Despite the postponement of his visit to the Philippines due to the massive earthquake that flattened Kyushu last April, Japanese Defense Minister Gen Nakatani reaffirmed the lease and transfer of five TC-90 training aircraft to the Philippines.

This was disclosed by Defense public affairs office chief Arsenio Andolong in a statement Tuesday.

“In a telephone call at around 4:00 p.m. on Monday, May 2, 2016, Japan’s Defense Minister Gen Nakatani, expressed appreciation to Philippine Defense Secretary Voltaire T. Gazmin for understanding the cancellation of his planned visit to the Philippines in April. The trip was postponed following the strong earthquakes that hit Kyushu,” he added.

During the phone call, both defense chiefs agreed that bilateral cooperation is indispensable and discussed how to enhance relations by strengthening communications, deepening exchanges and educational opportunities.

In the same vein, Nakatani reaffirmed the transfer of Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force TC-90 aircraft which will be useful for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief and maritime security.

“Further to this, will be the training that will be provided for the end-users,” Andolong said.

Delivery of the TC-90s are expected to be completed this year.

He added that both leaders are looking forward to meeting each other in a rescheduling of the visit.

Both parties reiterated their commitment to work together, with Nakatani expressing that the two countries’ bilateral relationship is crucial for peace, stability and prosperity, not only of the two countries, but of the region as well.

The TC-90, which is part of the Beechcraft King Air aircraft family, was offered by Japan shortly after the Agreement Concerning the Transfer of Defense Equipment and Technology was finalized last Feb. 29.

The TC-90’s patrol range is double of small Philippine aircraft which only has a maximum range of 300 kilometers.

http://www.update.ph/2016/05/japan-philippines-bilateral-cooperation-indispensable/5036