Discussions over proposals to expand the American military’s presence in
the Philippines ended in Manila on October 2 but the two sides
failed to reach a deal, Filipino officials said on October 3.
The negotiations are at a “crucial” stage, with more work needed over
the installations to be offered to the Americans, as well as the
“pre-positioning” of US defence equipment, chief Filipino negotiator Pio
Batino told a news conference after the fourth round of talks.
The plan would allow more US troops, aircraft and ships to
temporarily pass through the Philippines at a time when Washington
is refocusing its attention on Asia. President Benigno Aquino has
pushed for the deal to help modernise the Philippine military.
US Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel said during a visit to Manila in
late August that the two allies were moving towards an agreement “in the
near future” and the access talks were to have been a centrepiece of
President Barack Obama’s visit to Manila on October 11-12. However,
Obama cancelled the Malaysian and Philippine legs of his trip due to the
budget stand-off with Republican leaders.
Though the
negotiators have yet to decide on when or where to meet next, Assistant
Foreign Secretary Carlos Sorreta was quoted as saying that Manila
remained hopeful of concluding the agreement.-VNA