Forging a United Future: The Historic Trilateral Summit Between the United States, Japan, and the Philippines
In an unprecedented gathering at the White House held at 4:21 P.M. EDT, President Joe Biden, together with Japanese Prime Minister and the President of the Philippines, inaugurated the first-ever leaders’ summit among the United States, Japan, and the Philippines. This landmark meeting heralds the commencement of a new period in partnership aimed at fostering a free, open, prosperous, and secure Indo-Pacific region.
PRESIDENT BIDEN: “It’s truly an honor to have you both here as we begin this new era of a partnership.”
The summit underscored the strategic importance of the Indo-Pacific in global geopolitics, with the three nations—staunch allies, partners, and proud democracies—pledging to collaboratively author a future narrative for the region that champions freedom, open collaboration, prosperity, and security.
The leaders discussed enhancing cooperation in crucial areas, including:
- Technology and Clean Energy: Initiatives targeting semiconductor supply chain security, expanding trusted telecommunications in the Philippines, and bolstering the clean energy workforce were highlighted.
- Maritime and Security Ties: President Biden reaffirmed the ironclad U.S. defense commitments to both Japan and the Philippines, emphasizing the mutual defense treaty with the Philippines concerning any attacks in the South China Sea.
- Economic Development: The launch of an economic corridor in the Philippines as part of the G7’s Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment was announced. This initiative, the first of its kind in the Indo-Pacific, is poised to generate employment and foster significant investment in critical sectors.
PRESIDENT MARCOS: “We meet today as friends and partners, bound by a shared vision and pursuit of a peaceful, stable, and prosperous Indo-Pacific.”
Prime Minister Kishida echoed the sentiments on cooperation and shared values, emphasizing the historic nature of the meeting in driving forward the initiative of sustaining a free and open international order.
This trilateral framework is not only a testament to the enduring partnership among the three nations but also a strategic move to confront the complex challenges of the modern era through unified efforts.
PRIME MINISTER KISHIDA: “Today’s meeting will make history as an occasion that significantly pushed forward such initiative.”
President Biden emphasized the collective strength derived from this partnership, stating, “when we stand as one, we’re able to forge a better future for all.”
As the leaders bid farewell to the press, the anticipation for the outcomes of this summit and future gatherings remains high, promising a concerted bid towards shaping a peaceful and thriving Indo-Pacific region.
The meeting concluded at 4:47 P.M. EDT, with the White House promising to keep the public updated on the ongoing efforts of President Biden’s administration to engage with and support the American people and global community.
For more information or to get involved with the initiatives discussed, the White House encourages public engagement through their channels, highlighting the role of collective effort in building a better future.
