Philippines, European Union elevate ties with enhanced partnership
The Philippines and the European Union have signed a joint statement to launch an Enhanced Partnership, focusing on security, trade, and climate cooperation. The agreement includes a €15 million assistance measure to support the Philippine military's maritime awareness.
Why it matters
This partnership signals a strategic shift in geopolitical alliances in the Indo-Pacific, particularly regarding maritime security in the South China Sea.
The Philippines and the European Union (EU) have formally elevated their bilateral relations by signing a Joint Statement launching an Enhanced Partnership aimed at broadening cooperation on foreign policy, security, trade, climate action, digital connectivity, and other areas of mutual interest.
Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro and EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice President Kaja Kallas signed the joint statement in Pasay City, describing it as a framework for a stronger, more comprehensive, and forward-looking relationship between Manila and the 27-member bloc.
In their joint press statement on Friday, July 24, Lazaro said the decision to upgrade ties reflected the growing breadth of cooperation between the Philippines and the European Union amid shared regional and global challenges.
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