US National Security Adviser O’Brien due in Manila
MANILA – Diplomatic and military sources said National Security Adviser Robert O’Brien is due in Manila on Sunday for a two day visit after traveling to Viet Nam seen as one of the latest moves to forge closer ties with its allies in the region.
Sources disclosed it was Secretary O’Brien who requested for the meeting. However, no details on the subject matter has been relayed.
The meeting will likely be with the Secretary of Foreign Affairs Teodoro L. Locsin, Jr. and National Security Adviser Secretary Hermogenes Esperon, Jr.
Secretary O’Brien is on his way to Viet Nam. It has been reported in the media that Viet Nam and the Philippines share the US concern over China’s behavior and maritime claims in Asia as what the White House said yesterday.
Citing Tweets from the White House National Security Council disclosed O’Brien would meet the leaders of both countries presumably “to reaffirm the strength of our bilateral relationships and to discuss regional security cooperation.”
Over at the Presidential Palace, Presidential Spokesperson Secretary Harry Roque said he has not come across any information of a possible meeting between Secretary O’Brien and President Duterte.
“I’m sure this can be better addressed by (O’Brien’s) counterpart, National Security Adviser Secretary Esperon,” Secretary Roque added. (Melo M. Acuña)
Comments