The Philippines and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have strengthened their collaboration in law enforcement and public safety by signing a significant bilateral security agreement, the first such accord between the two countries.

Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla signed the agreement on behalf of the Philippine government, while representing the UAE was His Highness Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al-Nahyan, the country’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, during a high-level meeting in Abu Dhabi last week.

The agreement formalizes the two nations’ commitment to enhance cooperation in combating transnational crimes and to institutionalize the sharing of best practices and expertise in law enforcement and public safety operations.

It also signifies a broader commitment to fostering peace, stability and sustainable development, based on the principles of sovereignty, non-interference and equality among states under international law.

During the meeting, officials also explored potential collaboration in emerging areas such as digital technologies and urban governance, as well as other sectors of mutual interest.

Remulla also expressed the Philippine government’s profound gratitude to the UAE for its pardon of 115 Filipino nationals during the recent Holy Month of Ramadan, a gesture he said highlights the enduring friendship between the two nations.

Joining Remulla at the meeting were Assistant Secretary for International Affairs Lilian de Leon, Executive Assistant Haydee Sy and other members of the Philippine delegation.