EU, Phl firm up security cooperation

The European Union (EU) and the Philippines reaffirmed their commitment to maritime security and the rules-based international order during their second Security and Defence Dialogue in Manila on 8 October.

The talks covered regional security, maritime security infrastructure and freedom of navigation, with both sides emphasizing the importance of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.

The dialogue was co-chaired by Benedikta von Seherr-Thoss, managing director for peace, security and defence at the European External Action Service, and Leo Herrera-Lim, undersecretary for policy at the Department of Foreign Affairs.

The meeting followed the EU’s announcement of its first-ever European Peace Facility assistance measure in Asia, a €15-million package for the Philippines.

The EU said the dialogue and assistance package reflected its commitment to promoting regional stability and security.