Philippine News Agency
VFA strengthens security ties, benefits Indo-Pacific states: US
The United States has welcomed the Philippine government's decision to renew the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA), stating that the accord is crucial for maintaining a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific region.
President Rodrigo Duterte informed US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin of his decision to recall the VFA abrogation during a meeting in Manila.
The VFA allows US troops to enter the Philippines for joint training and exercises with Filipino forces.
According to a US Embassy statement, the VFA and the alliance it supports enhance the security of both nations and benefit all countries in the Indo-Pacific.
US Defense Secretary Austin emphasized that a strong and resilient US-Philippine alliance is vital for the Indo-Pacific's security, stability, and prosperity, and a fully restored VFA will help achieve this goal.
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Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has agreed to new terms for the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) with the United States, revoking his earlier order to terminate the defense pact.
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Several senators have welcomed President Rodrigo Duterte's decision to retract the termination of the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) with the United States.
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The Philippines is seeking a provision within the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) that would allow the country to take custody of American soldiers convicted of crimes committed in the Philippines.
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