Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio is planning to visit the Philippines and Malaysia for three days from November 3. He plans to hold summits with each of the leaders.

They are expected to confirm plans to strengthen security cooperation amid China's increasing maritime activities. They are also expected to exchange opinions on the situations in the Middle East and Ukraine.

They are likely to discuss a new "Official Security Assistance" framework for Japan to provide defense equipment and other supplies to like-minded countries.

The leaders are expected to confirm their commitment to enhancing economic cooperation and encouraging cultural exchanges.

Kishida also plans to ask for help in staging a successful special summit between Japan and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations in Tokyo in December.