Philippines Seeks Reciprocal Troop Access Agreements

The Philippines, led by Defence Secretary Gilberto Teodoro, aims to establish reciprocal troop access agreements with countries like Canada, France, and New Zealand to enhance military interoperability. These pacts will allow armed forces to operate within Philippine territory and vice-versa, strengthening defensive alliances amid China's assertive actions in the region. Teodoro hopes to finalize these agreements by next year, following a significant military pact with Japan. Support from Canada, France, and New Zealand for the Philippines' territorial claims in the South China Sea adds to the geopolitical dynamics influenced by China's expansive maritime claims.