President Aquino, Japan Prime Minister likely to discuss West Philippine Sea issue

President Benigno S. Aquino III delivers his speech during the The Outstanding Filipino 2013 Awarding Ceremonies at the Insular Life Auditorium, Insular Life Corporate Center, Filinvest Corporate City in Alabang, Muntinlupa City on Wednesday (January 29). (Photo by Ryan Lim / Malacañang Photo Bureau)

MANILA — President Benigno S. Aquino III will meet Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe during his one-day trip to Japan on June 24, with the West Philippine Sea issue likely to be on their agenda.

Citing a Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) statement, Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. said on Wednesday that the summit meeting is an opportunity for President Aquino and Prime Minister Abe to exchange views on recent regional developments.

Coloma said the two leaders will also tackle areas of cooperation to enhance the Philippines-Japan Strategic Partnership.

President Aquino and Prime Minister Abe will hold a summit meeting over lunch at the latter’s official residence in Tokyo.

After their meeting, President Aquino will deliver the keynote address at the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) International Conference in Hiroshima.

After speaking in Hiroshima, the President will return home to Manila.

The Chief Executive’s visit Japan is upon the invitation of Prime Minister Abe.