US Strengthens Indo-Pacific Alliance with Japan and the Philippines

President Joe Biden's efforts to build a coalition in the Indo-Pacific have been instrumental in strengthening alliances with Japan and the Philippines to defend against China's aggressive actions. The US has worked on various relationships, including bilateral, trilateral, and multilateral, to counter the increasing assertiveness from China. A significant development is expected next month as President Biden hosts the leaders of Japan and the Philippines in Washington to solidify a new trilateral partnership. However, there is a need for a defense budget that aligns with the ambitious diplomacy.