The Philippines and Denmark are actively exploring ways to enhance their defense cooperation amid rising tensions in the West Philippine Sea.

Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen, on a two-day official visit to Manila, highlighted discussions with Philippine officials focusing on strengthening ties between their respective defense industries.

“We have business community links with the defense industry in Denmark. We have certain competencies and strongholds, which are probably also needed in the Philippines to maintain necessary capacity,” Rasmussen said during a joint briefing with Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo on Monday.

“That was the focus of the discussion today: ‘How can we develop and create a stronger tie between our defense industries?’ We discussed that in a very concrete manner,” he added.

Rasmussen’s visit follows a recent incident involving the harassment of Filipino vessels by the China Coast Guard in the West Philippine Sea.

Secretary Manalo expressed gratitude for Denmark’s consistent support, particularly concerning China’s actions in the disputed waters.