A visiting forces agreement signed by the Philippines and Canada marked Manila’s latest move to strengthen military ties with international partners amid mounting territorial tensions with China.

Newsweek has contacted the Chinese Defense Ministry for comment.

Why It Matters

China claims sovereignty over almost all of the trade-heavy South China Sea, putting it at odds with competing claims by the Philippines and several other neighboring countries.

In recent years, Beijing has sought to solidify its presence inside the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ), including ejecting Filipino fishermen. The Philippine government has released footage showing Chinese vessels using water cannons and ramming maneuvers while intercepting its ships.

China has also stepped up its presence n

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