U.S. Starts Navy Patrols With Philippines in South China Sea
- Defense Secretay Carter says China's actions causing anxiety
- U.S. to lift troop presence under expanded defense agreement
U.S.-Philippines Conduct Joint Drills in South China Sea
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U.S. Defense Secretary Ash Carter said joint patrols with the Philippines have started in the South China Sea, as the country boosts its military presence in the Southeast Asian nation ahead of a key court ruling on China’s claims to the waters.
The allies, who are seeking to thwart China’s assertiveness in one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes, began the sea patrols last month, Carter said Thursday in a briefing at the presidential palace in Manila.