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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider PH, Australia boost defense, people-to-people ties

PH, Australia boost defense, people-to-people ties

Published Sep 8, 2023 05:44 am

Australian Prime Minister Antony Albanese has announced a new strategic partnership with the Philippines that will focus on avoiding violence, especially in Mindanao, and boost the national and regional defense capabilities of both sides.

During his visit to Manila on Friday for a bilateral talk with President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr., Albanese said Canberra will be launching a five-year program that will "help further reduce violent conflict, reintegrate former combatants and improve community development livelihood, particularly for women and those in vulnerable situations."

Albanese was the first Australian leader to hold a bilateral talk with the Philippine counterpart in 20 years.

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Noel Pabalate/MANILA BULLETIN

As Australia has been working closely with the Philippines in ensuring peace and stability in conflict-affected areas in Mindanao, Albanese said the elevation of partnership between both sides "is an important symbol of the strength of our relationship and our shared commitment to do more together."

This came as both leaders discussed during their talk the strengthening of cooperation on regional and national security and agreed to formalize an annual defense ministers meeting.

"Australia is ambitious for what we can achieve with the Philippines and with the region," Albanese said.

Marcos and his Australian counterpart also tackled people to people ties and noted their importance during their meeting. Because of this, Albanese said, the links "will be further strengthened by the new reciprocal work and holiday visa arrangements."

The Australia Awards Scholarships slots will also be doubled for the Philippines, added Albanese, who noted that "educational and institutional links will continue to play a key role in our bilateral relationship."

According to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), Australia has been a top preferred study destination for Filipino students. In 2022, there were 17,825 Filipino students in Australia, ranking top 8th source and accounting for 3 percent of the total population of international students. 

"We're also supporting the re-establishment of the Philippine Institute at the Australian National University, which will boost partnerships between Australian and Filipino academic institutions," Albanese also said.

The Australian leader expressed confidence that Canberra and Manila can rise to meet the new challenges by working together "and help to realize our vision of an open, prosperous, peaceful and stable region."

 

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Bongbong Marcos Jr. Antony Albanese
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