Tokyo: The Philippine Army (PA) and the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF) are aiming to strengthen their collaboration in the area of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR). The PA has expressed a keen interest in building closer ties with Japan in these crucial fields.

According to Philippines News Agency, PA chief Lt. Gen. Antonio Nafarrete recently met with JGSDF chief-of-staff Gen. Arai Masayoshi at the Ground Staff Office in Ichigaya, Tokyo. During their meeting on December 16, the two military leaders discussed various perspectives on peace and stability between the Philippines and Japan, focusing on enhancing cooperation in HADR.

This meeting is the second encounter between the two officials, following their initial meeting at the Indo-Pacific Armies Chiefs Conference in September. The PA emphasized the importance of fostering strong relationships with international partners, aiming to maintain peace across the Indo-Pacific Region. These bilateral meetings with key figures are seen as vital opportunities for the PA to grow through training and exchanges with subject matter experts.

Lt. Gen. Nafarrete is also scheduled to participate in the upcoming Land Forces Summit and Landpower Forum in Japan later this week, further solidifying the PA's commitment to international collaboration and development.