Tokyo, May 29 (AseanAll)  — On May 29,2025, Yoshimasa Hayashi, Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary, received a courtesy call from Enrique A. Manalo, Secretary for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of the Philippines, who was visiting Japan. 

The two sides were glad to be reunited for the first time in two years, recalled their frequent meetings during Mr. Hayashi's tenure as Foreign Minister, as well as their close collaboration with counterparts from other like-minded countries.

The two sides confirmed their commitment to further strengthening Japan-Philippines relations, which have reached a stage where they can be called near-alliance partnership, based on the outcomes of Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru’s visit to the Philippines.

The two sides exchanged views on regional and international situations and confirmed their commitment to maintaining close coordination. Additionally, Hayashi requested continued understanding and cooperation regarding the immediate resolution of the abduction issue and received support from Foreign Minister Manalo.

In addition, the two sides touched on the Osaka-Kansai Expo and confirmed their cooperation toward its success.