The Philippine Navy is eyeing a strong defense cooperation with the Italian government, including procurement of military assets.
Rear Admiral Caesar Bernard Valencia, acting Navy Flag Officer In Command, said he discussed the issue of sustained defense partnership during the visit of Navy Capt. Maurizio Pitton, the visiting non-resident Attaché of Italy to the Philippines,
During the meeting, Valencia shared the command’s satisfaction with how the multi-purpose AW109 helicopters acquired from Italian manufacturer AgustaWestland have significantly advanced and modernized the PN’s conduct of its mandated tasks.
The acting Navy Chief also expressed high hopes to have future agreement for the trainings of PN pilots with Italian counterparts.
For his part, Pitton congratulated Valencia on his recent designation as acting Navy chief.
He said thje Italian government is looking forward to sustaining defense partnership with the Philippine Navy particularly in terms of materiel and sharing of expertise.
He also echoed the priority thrusts of their armed forces that involve keeping the sea lines of communication open.