Philippines-US relations sink to new lows
In a sharp reaction to President Obama’s criticism on ruthless anti-drug war by the Philippine leader Rodrigo Duterte, latter has stated to break all ties with United States of America if the latter stance continues. Duterte’s anti-drug campaign has left more than 3000 dead in last 3 months thus raising concerns among leading nations and human rights groups like US, EU and also UN.
The reaction is an apparent disappointment to US response as the latter had asked Philippine government to put an abrupt end to widespread killings and also raised concerns about gross violation of human rights. Duterte also stated that US refusal to sell arms to Philippines will not matter much as Russia and China have expressed their willingness to do so. The White House in an official statement has not intimated about any changes in diplomatic relations between the two nations and has reiterated the fact that diplomatic lines of communication remain open as no formal communication has been received.
Rodrigo Duterte has always had a disturbing relation with US ever since he came to power in June. He has regularly expressed intentions of augmenting ties with Russia and China as Philippine foreign policy had long been dependent on Washington for support. Obama had cancelled a planned meet with Duterte on the sidelines of an Asian summit. Duterte also was in favour of reviewing the defence pact with US which was signed two years ago and stood for sending more US troops to Philippines. The Pact is essential for US to contain China in the South China Sea. The Enhanced Defence Cooperation Agreement was signed by the two nations in April, 2014. The 10-page document defines a framework to raise the scope of 1951 Mutual Defence Treaty. MDT contains a preamble which outlines obligations of both Philippines and US as per UN Charter and MDT to settle international disputes by peaceful processes. More importantly, it also states that both sides have developed a common understanding by which US will not station any permanent troops or military base in Philippines.
The remarks and reaction from the Filipino leader came at a time when US and the Philippines began joint military exercises. The 8-day military drill cover about 1100 troops from US and 400 from Philippines. The exercises are taking place on northern Luzon island. Philippines was once a US colony and has enjoyed a long defence relationship with Washington.
The two nations are said to share a Special Relationship as Philippines has always considered US as a staunch ally although there have been severe jolts to the same under the leadership of President Rodrigo Duterte. Philippines is one of the oldest partners in Asia for US and a major strategic non-NATO ally.
