On July 26-27, yet another important page in the history of Philippine-Japan relations will be written with the visit to the Philippines of His Excellency Shinzo Abe, Prime Minister of Japan, on the invitation of His Excellency President Benigno S. Aquino III.

The visit attests to the particular importance given by the Abe Government to the Philippines, being one of Japan’s recognized bilateral strategic partners. Since 1956, bilateral relations have been mutually beneficial and characterized by cooperation in a wide range of fields. More importantly, Philippines-Japan ties stand out in the region for being underpinned by a strong shared adherence to the values of democracy, humanitarian principles and the rule of law.