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Duterte on Japan visit says US to remain Philippines’ sole military ally after his pivot to China

The Philippine president softened his remarks about a ‘separation’ from long-time ally United States made during a trip last week to China

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UnJapanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe (L) and Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte. Abe has sought to strengthen ties with the Philippines and other Southeast Asian countries as a counter-balance to Beijing. Photo: Kyodo
Acid-tongued Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte takes his diplomatic roadshow to Japan on Tuesday, days after his apparent tilt towards China raised questions about his strategic intentions.
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The Philippines and Japan have long been key US allies in Asia, but Duterte has done a dramatic U-turn since coming to office in late June.

That appeared to culminate last week in Beijing where he declared his “separation” from the United States, played down a maritime dispute with China and pledged to enhance friendship and economic ties.
Back home on Saturday, however, the former mayor seemed to walk back his comments, saying he would not be severing the alliance with Washington.
Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe (R) and Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte shake hands ahead of their talks in Vientiane, Laos in September. Photo: Kyodo
Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe (R) and Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte shake hands ahead of their talks in Vientiane, Laos in September. Photo: Kyodo
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And on Monday, he went further, telling Japanese media that the US will remain the country’s sole military ally.

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