The Netherlands and Norway are the latest countries to express interest in supplying the Philippines with military and security systems under the Armed Forces of the Philippines' revamped modernization program.

Other countries that earlier sent representatives for talks with Philippine defense officials included India, Israel, Sweden, France and Germany.

Defense spokesperson Arsenio Andolong said Norway's Ambassador to the Philippines, Christian Halaas Lyster, expressed interest in the maritime aspect of the non-traditional security concerns of the two countries.

"To that end, both sides highlighted a coordination with like-minded partners, especially in strategic messaging, as an effective means to counter such threats," Andolong said.

Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. had also met with the Netherlands' ambassador to Manila, Marielle Geraedts, to talk about defense and security.

"Secretary Teodoro proposed greenfield opportunities in various industries, particularly in defense and security, with the Netherlands and the EU," the DND said.

Geraedts noted the Philippines' adoption of the National Security Policy 2023-2028.