Philippines and Britain Discuss Troop Agreement

The Philippines and Britain are talking about letting each other's soldiers visit and work in their countries more easily.

Britain wants to make an agreement called a Visiting Forces Agreement with the Philippines.

This was brought up by Britain's defense officials during a meeting in Manila.

The agreement would allow troops from both countries to be stationed in each other's territories.

This is happening as the Philippines is increasing its security cooperation with Western countries.

This is happening as tensions are rising in the South China Sea.