Japan and the Philippines reportedly plan to hold so-called two-plus-two talks between their foreign and defense ministers later this year in Manila.

It comes after the leaders of both countries agreed at a summit in November to work closely on security and economic issues.

Philippine Foreign Minister Enrique Manalo revealed the plan on Friday.

The two sides first held two-plus-two talks in Tokyo in April 2022. The planned meeting would be the second of its kind, and the first under the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

Manalo said they will discuss the details of a series of agreements reached between the countries' leaders.

He also said the Philippines wants to conclude a Reciprocal Access Agreement with Japan as soon as possible.

Such a deal would allow for earlier planning of joint drills and other activities between Japan's Self-Defense Forces and the Philippine military.

Manolo said he hopes the two countries improve security cooperation in light of a territorial dispute between the Philippines and China in the South China Sea.