Taguig City: The Philippines and the United Kingdom have signed a significant agreement aimed at enhancing collaboration in key sectors, including defense and trade. Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo and British Foreign Minister David Lammy MP formalized the 'Philippines-UK Joint Framework' in Taguig City.

According to Philippines News Agency, since the launch of the Philippines-UK Enhanced Partnership in 2021, bilateral trade has reached 2.9 billion pounds, with the UK remaining a top investment partner for the Philippines. Lammy highlighted that the framework will facilitate increased cooperation in defense, regional security, trade, science and technology, and climate, among other areas, in the coming period.

Lammy emphasized the necessity for like-minded countries such as the UK and the Philippines to strengthen their ties amid global volatility. He noted the alignment in approach between the two nations and expressed optimism about the potential for continued collaboration.

Under the new framework, Secretary Manalo stated that Manila aims to build on past milestones with the UK and explore new engagements, setting the stage for broader and more practical cooperation. He also mentioned plans to sustain cooperation on issues of mutual concern, including defense, security, human rights, maritime affairs, and economic resilience.

Manalo welcomed the UK's Indo-Pacific Approach, acknowledging its commitment to a free, peaceful, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region. The Philippines and the UK are set to hold sectoral dialogue mechanisms on defense, maritime, climate, and environment later this year.

While details are still being discussed, Manalo hinted at the possibility of finalizing agreements in defense and security, information and communications technology, maritime affairs, and financial cooperation during these meetings. Regarding the potential for a visiting forces agreement with the UK, he mentioned that it remains a possibility, though nothing has been finalized yet.