TOKYO — President Rodrigo Duterte and Prime Minister Shinzo Abe open talks in Tokyo on Monday on key regional concerns, including the nuclear threat posed by North Korea.
TOKYO — President Rodrigo Duterte and Prime Minister Shinzo Abe open talks in Tokyo on Monday on key regional concerns, including the nuclear threat posed by North Korea.
This is the third meeting between the two leaders, after Mr. Duterte’s state visit to Tokyo last year and Abe’s reciprocal visit to Manila in January.
Chief Japanese Cabinet Secretary Yoshide Suga has said the meeting between Mr. Duterte and Abe ahead of two regional summits next month provides great opportunity to discuss pressing issues such as North Korea’s nuclear ambitions.
Japan’s Deputy Chief of Mission Takihiro Kano earlier said Mr. Duterte’s visit would enhance cooperation between Japan and the Philippines for peace and stability in the region.
The Philippine leader arrived in Tokyo early Monday for a two-day visit.
He will have discussions with Abe in the prime minister’s office on Monday, after which they will issue a joint statement.
On Monday evening, Abe will host a dinner for Mr. Duterte.
In a predeparture speech at Davao International Airport on Sunday night, Mr. Duterte said he expected to discuss the North Korean nuclear threat and trade issues with Abe.
