Philippines Seeks to Expand "Squad" with India and South Korea
The Philippines' Armed Forces Chief, General Romeo S. Brawner, has proposed expanding the "Squad," an informal multilateral grouping of Australia, Japan, the Philippines, and the United States, to include India and South Korea. This proposal was made during the Raisina Dialogue security forum in New Delhi.
Brawner emphasized the Philippines' efforts to enhance its "deterrence capabilities" through collaboration with the "Squad." He described the group as an informal platform for military cooperation, intelligence sharing, joint exercises, and operations.
Brawner's proposal reflects Manila's concerns over China's assertive actions in the South China Sea. He accused China of employing "illegal, coercive, and disruptive Grey Zone" tactics in the region.
A Chinese expert, Ding Duo, interpreted Brawner's remarks as a reflection of Manila's anxiety and a risky attempt to counter China by drawing external powers into the region. Ding highlighted the Philippines' concerns about the US's potential reduction in regional security commitment under the "America First" policy.
Brawner's push to include India and South Korea in the "Squad" signals Manila's intent to forge a broader security network beyond traditional allies. However, analysts suggest that India and South Korea are likely to approach the proposal cautiously due to their own strategic considerations and interests.
Ding argued that Manila lacks the strategic influence to persuade India and South Korea to join the group. He contrasted the Philippines' approach with China's and most ASEAN members' focus on maintaining peace and stability in the South China Sea.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi criticized the Philippines' moves to create frictions in the South China Sea, describing them as "shadow play" orchestrated by external forces. He warned that infringement and provocation will backfire and those acting as others' pawns will be discarded.
10 Comments
Answer
The Philippines is right to be concerned about China's actions. It's important to have a strong alliance to protect its interests.
The Truth
Including India and South Korea in this group is just a way to drag them into the US's orbit. It's not in their interests.
Answer
This is a clear signal that the Philippines is not going to be intimidated by China.
The Truth
Including India and South Korea in this group will bring valuable expertise and resources to the table.
Pupsik
The Philippines is sacrificing its own sovereignty by joining this group. It's a bad deal for the country.
Katchuka
The Philippines needs to stop being a pawn in the US's game. It's time to chart its own course.
BuggaBoom
Including India and South Korea in this group will strengthen the alliance's capabilities.
Loubianka
This is a reckless move that could lead to a war. The Philippines needs to think carefully about the consequences.
KittyKat
This is a provocative move that will only make China more assertive. It's not a solution to the problems in the South China Sea.
Noir Black
The Philippines should be focusing on its own internal problems, not getting involved in international power struggles.