Amid mounting tensions with China, the Philippines and the US have embarked on their largest-ever joint military exercise. The background is China’s territorial claims in the South China Sea and military maneuvers off the coast of Taiwan. A total of 17,600 military personnel are participating in the annual Balikatan (shoulder to shoulder) exercises this time, including 12,200 from the United States. The maneuvers, which also include live combat exercises at sea, will last until April 28.
The focus should be on sea and coastal defense. The training aims to prepare the armed forces of both countries to “respond immediately and effectively to any situation, crisis or emergency under any circumstances,” Philippine Army Chief Andres Centino said at the start of the exercises. At the same time, they must contribute to peace in the Indo-Pacific.
In February, the Philippines had already promised the United States access to four more military bases on the island. US forces previously used five Philippine military bases.
Balikatan 2023 will be held in five provinces, including Zambales and Palawan, which border the South China Sea. The Philippines and other countries disagree with Beijing over sovereignty over resource-rich marine areas. China has created artificial islands to support claims and is unwilling to recognize an international arbitral award in favor of the Philippines.
Another practice location is near Taiwan. Beijing considers independently governed Taiwan part of the People’s Republic and threatens to conquer it. In response to Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen’s visit to the United States and her talks with US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, China recently conducted large-scale maneuvers around Taiwan.
China warned that the Balikatan exercises should not interfere in disputes over disputed waters. China’s territorial sovereignty, maritime rights and security interests must also not be harmed, said Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin. (sda/dpa)
Soource :Watson
I am Amelia James, a passionate journalist with a deep-rooted interest in current affairs. I have more than five years of experience in the media industry, working both as an author and editor for 24 Instant News. My main focus lies in international news, particularly regional conflicts and political issues around the world.
