Philippines, Japan to hold security talks next month

MANILA, Philippines — Japan and the Philippines are to hold high-level defense and security talks next month, the foreign department said Friday, as the two countries seek to boost ties in the face of China's growing regional pressure.

Japan's Defence Minister Minoru Kihara and Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa will discuss "bilateral and defense and security issues affecting the region" at the July 8 Manila meeting, a department statement said.