Manila, May 29 -- The Japanese government reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening ties with the Philippines as it praised the two states' rapidly growing partnership, which it said has evolved into "near-alliance status."

Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya and Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo held a bilateral meeting in Tokyo on Wednesday and affirmed the two states' commitment to further strengthen ties, including the foundation for increased security and defense cooperation.

"Minister Iwaya stated that through the Japan-Philippines Summit Meeting in April this year, Japan has been able to further strengthen its relations with the Philippines, a 'neighbor' connected by the sea," the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs ...