South Korean envoy pushes stronger military ties with AFP
South Korea is hoping to further strengthen its military cooperation with the Philippines, according to its ambassador.
Lee Sang-Hwa, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Korea (ROK) to the Philippines, said this when he met with Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff, General Romeo Brawner Jr. during an introductory courtesy call at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City on Tuesday, Oct. 10.
Lee emphasized the importance of strengthening collaboration with "like-minded" nations as he said that South Korea is "keen on making more contributions" to the Philippines' endeavors in promoting a "free" Indo-Pacific region.
"Defense industry cooperation goes deeper. It should be based on long-held trust. We are confident that there will be stronger collaboration," Lee said as he noted the long-standing friendship between the two countries.
Meanwhile, Brawner said Lee's visit showed his appreciation to the the relationship of both countries' armed forces.
"We want to show the world that we have shared interests and that we are willing to work with our allies and partners," the AFP Chief stated.
In August, Lee also visited Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. where they discussed ROK's assistance to the Philippines in addressing issues related to internal security, natural calamities, and capacity-building of the AFP.
South Korea had also joined as an observer along with Japan in the "KAMANDAG" marine exercise conducted by the Philippines and United States in Manila last year.