Vietnam and Philippines Unite on Maritime Security

Vietnam and the Philippines have agreed to deepen their military and defense relations, focusing on maritime security in response to increasing tensions in the South China Sea. The two nations are working towards signing a defense cooperation deal by the end of the year and resolving disagreements peacefully within international law frameworks.

Vietnam and the Philippines reached a significant agreement on Friday to strengthen defense and military ties, especially in the realm of maritime security. This marks a considerable step as both nations have had longstanding disputes with China over claims in the South China Sea.

In Manila for his first visit as defense chief, Vietnam's Defence Minister Phan Van Giang met with his Philippine counterpart, Gilberto Teodoro, and paid a courtesy call to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. The ministers expressed a strong commitment to bolster defense cooperation through various levels of engagement.

Aiming to finalize a defense cooperation agreement by year's end, the two sides signed letters of intent to enhance engagements on disaster response and military medicine. They also emphasized the importance of peaceful dispute resolution within international law, underscoring the need for peace, stability, and freedom of navigation in the region.

(With inputs from agencies.)