After maritime collision with China: Biden reaffirms US commitment to defend PH
US President Joe Biden on Wednesday reaffirmed Washington's defense commitment to Manila, during a joint press conference with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, expressing strong concerns about the recent activities of Chinese vessels during a Philippine resupply mission.
Biden criticized Beijing's actions in the West Philippine Sea, after the engagement of a Chinese coastguard ship against a “militia” vessel on Sunday, a “dangerous maneuvering” that led to collisions with a Filipino boat and a Philippine Coast Guard vessel. These vessels were on a mission to resupply troops stationed at the BRP Sierra Madre on Ayungin Shoal.
The US President emphasized the resoluteness of the United States' defense commitment to the Philippines, emphasizing that any attack on Filipino aircraft, vessels, or armed forces would trigger the Mutual Defense Treaty between the two countries.
"I want to be very clear. The United States defense commitment to the Philippines is ironclad," Biden said.
"Any attack on Filipino aircraft, vessels, or armed forces will invoke our Mutual Defense Treaty with the Philippines," he emphasized.
Beijing has claimed a vast portion of the South China Sea, which includes areas within the Philippine exclusive economic zone, disregarding a 2016 international ruling that invalidated its claims.
Meanwhile, Ayungin Shoal is situated approximately 200 kilometers from Palawan and over 1,000 kilometers from China's nearest major landmass, Hainan Island.
The Australian Prime Minister, meanwhile, stressed the increasing importance of their ties in today's unpredictable world. This visit underscores the significance that Washington places on Australia, a longstanding ally, as a key element of its strategy in the face of China's growing assertiveness in the Asia-Pacific region
The leaders also reviewed progress on the AUKUS deal involving Australia, Britain, and the United States, which will result in Australia acquiring nuclear-powered submarines.
Other discussions include announcements related to technology, climate change, and plans to enhance internet connectivity and maritime infrastructure in Pacific island nations where China has been attempting to expand its influence.
