Philippine Ambassador to the US Jose Manuel Romualdez had earlier mentioned that Japan and Australia are likely to join the joint patrols in the contested waterway.
Indonesia does not have a free trade agreement with the US, but its nickel products have increasingly become important in the supply chain
"This means increasing, not decreasing, joint military exercises to improve the readiness of the combined force", he said.
The strategic importance of the Philippines to promote a free and open Indo-Pacific and ensure the safety of sea-lanes is increasing.
The zoo hosted a farewell party for the female panda on April 8, and is currently awaiting a permit from the US Fish and Wildlife Service to send her home to China.
The trip is expected to advance key discussions with Vietnamese partners as they celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Comprehensive Partnership.
Experts say the US sees the Philippines as a potential location for rockets, missiles and artillery systems to counter a Chinese amphibious invasion of Taiwan, which China claims…
The Philippines last week identified four more military bases that the US may access amid shared concerns about China’s growing might.
The country has been trying to leverage its nickel reserves, to attract investment from battery and EV makers, including Tesla and Ford.
Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen said Bangladesh, like the US, also wants a free, fair, and model election.