Manila, Dec. 19 -- The Philippine Army (PA) and its counterpart, the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF) is looking to have more cooperation in the field of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR).

The PA said its chief, Lt. Gen. Antonio Nafarrete met with JGSDF chief-of-staff Gen. Arai Masayoshi on Dec. 16 at the Ground Staff Office in Ichigaya, Tokyo.

"The two leaders had a fruitful exchange of views regarding peace and stability between the two nations, and sought cooperation on (HADR," an Army news release said Friday.

The meeting marks the second time the two military officials met since the Indo-Pacific Armies Chiefs Conference in September.

"The PA values strong relationships with international stakeholders, with...