Makati city: The Philippines and Australia have taken a significant step toward enhancing their security ties by signing a statement of intent to pursue a Defense Cooperation Agreement. The announcement was made on Friday following the 2nd Philippine-Australia Defense Ministers Meeting, held in Makati City.

According to Philippines News Agency, Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Richard Marles stated in a media briefing that the agreement is anticipated to be finalized and signed by next year. Marles emphasized the importance of this agreement as a progressive move in the defense relationship between the two nations. He explained that it builds upon the 1995 Memorandum of Understanding between the Philippines and Australia and will encapsulate comprehensive engagement in defense.

Marles highlighted that the agreement will establish a framework for annual defense ministers' meetings and enhance coordination in military exercises and operational activities between the two countries. Additionally, it will explore how Australia can further contribute to infrastructure development in the Philippines, benefiting the Armed Forces of the Philippines. Currently, Australia is involved in eight infrastructure projects across five locations in the Philippines.

Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. expressed that the defense agreement will formalize the partnership between the Philippines and Australia. He mentioned that it is fitting for the agreement to be signed next year when the Philippines hosts the Association of Southeast Asian Nations Summit meetings. Teodoro also extended gratitude to Australia for its support of the Philippines' rights under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. He underscored the joint efforts in the Indo-Pacific Region to uphold shared values of international law amidst growing challenges.