Biden: US-Philippines partnership is ironclad
President Joe Biden reiterated the US commitment to the Philippines' security and noted the “deep friendship” of the two nations as he welcomed Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr for White House talks on Monday. Marcos' visit to Washington comes after the US and the Philippines last week completed their largest war drills ever and as the two countries' air forces on Monday will hold their first joint fighter jet training in the Philippines since 1990. The Philippines this year agreed to give the US access to four more bases on the islands. Beijing's ambassador to Manila has accused the Philippines of "stoking the fire" of regional tensions by offering the expanded base access. The development also prompted China to accuse the United States of endangering regional peace and stability. As Biden sat down with Marcos, he noted the progress in the US-Philippine relationship – one that has had ups and downs over the years and was in a difficult place when Marcos took office less than a year ago. “We are facing new challenges and I couldn’t think of a better partner to have than you.” Biden told Marcos at the start of their Oval Office meeting.  “The United States also remains ironclad in our commitment to the defence of the Philippines, including in the South China Sea, and we will continue to support the Philippines military modernisation.” Marcos said the relationship was essential as Philippines and the Pacific finds itself in “possibly the most complicated geopolitical situation in the world right now.” The two sides are expected to discuss the security situation and come out with new economic, education, climate and other initiatives as part of Marcos’ four-day visit to Washington, according to two senior Biden administration officials. (AP)