Saying thanks, the Philippines considers the US the biggest force for maintaining peace in the East Sea

On March 28, US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, who is visiting the Philippines, met with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. as well as his counterpart Gilberto Teodoro of the host country.

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. (left) and US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth at Malacanang Palace in Manila on March 28. (Source: AFP)

The Philippine News Agency (PNA) quoted President Marcos' statement at the meeting with Minister Hegseth admitting that the US is the "biggest force" in maintaining peace in the Indo- Pacific region, especially in the East Sea.

The leader emphasized: “The decision to choose the Philippines as your first stop is a very clear expression and sends a very strong message about the commitment of both our countries to continue to cooperate to maintain peace in the Indo- Pacific region, especially in the East Sea.”

According to him, Manila “has always understood the principle that the greatest force serving peace in this region will be the United States.”

In addition, President Marcos also expressed confidence that the US Secretary of Defense's lightning visit to the Philippines will be "extremely effective", outlining a roadmap for the future and common prosperity of the two countries, despite the "complicated" geopolitical situation in the region.

For his part, the US Secretary of Defense reaffirmed Washington's "ironclad" commitment to the Mutual Defense Treaty with Manila, stating: "Deterrence is necessary globally, but is especially important in this region, in the Philippines."

According to him, allies need to stand together to prevent conflicts and ensure freedom of navigation... "We recognize your country's very steadfast stance in this region and in defending the nation," the Pentagon leader said.

Besides, Mr. Hegseth also emphasized the close alliance, friendship and cooperation between the two countries.

Meanwhile, at the meeting between the two defense ministers, host country official Gilberto Teodoro expressed gratitude for the long-standing support of the US treaty ally, and affirmed his commitment to working with allies and partners to re-establish regional deterrence against threats.

Minister Teodoro highlighted the need to be ready to respond, confront and deter any future threats for the common defense and protection of international law.

Source: https://baoquocte.vn/noi-loi-cam-on-philippines-coi-my-la-luc-luong-duy-tri-hoa-binh-lon-nhat-o-bien-dong-309150.html