Manila: Mr Abe’s two-day visit to the Philippines is the first by a foreign leader since Mr Duterte took office in the middle of last year, highlighting Japan’s importance as the Southeast Asian nation’s top trading partner and foreign aid donor.
Mr Abe is also intent on maintaining Japan’s strong ties with the Philippines as Mr Duterte shakes up his nation’s foreign policy with a shift away from the US, both nations’ longtime ally, in favour of China and Russia.
The trip began with a warm welcome by Duterte at the presidential palace, with the Philippine leader then winning much sought-after backing for his drug war that has claimed about 6,000 lives and raised concerns of mass extrajudicial killings.
“On countering illegal drugs, we want to work together with the Philippines to think of relevant measures of support,” Mr Abe said afterwards, according to an interpreter.
Mr Abe said Japan would help with drug treatment programmes and facilities.
Mr Duterte has railed against US President Barack Obama and European politicians for criticising his drug war.
