The Philippines and South Korea have committed to deepen their maritime cooperation as both sides noted the importance of oceans to their national interests.
Manila and Seoul agreed to enhance their efforts as delegates from both sides met in Manila on Oct. 12 for the 2nd Maritime Dialogue.
Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Assistant Secretary Maria Angela Ponce led the delegation in holding talks with the South Korean side led by Foreign Ministry Director General Kim Dong Bae.
During the dialogue, the Philippines and South Korea covered a broad range of topics, including ocean economy, marine environment, maritime security and safety, and regional and multilateral maritime-related developments.
In her remark, Ponce said this year’s Maritime Dialogue was “an opportune occasion to reaffirm our commitment to the enhancement of our mutual engagement in the maritime domain,” ahead of the 75th anniversary of the establishment of bilateral relations in 2024.
She also thanked Seoul for citing the 2016 Arbitral Award on the South China Sea in its written submission to the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea on the request for an advisory opinion related to climate change.
Seoul in response said that the success of the Maritime Dialogue with the Philippines—its only maritime dialogue with an ASEAN member—would serve as a model for the establishment of similar mechanisms with the countries in the region.