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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Marcos, Luxon agree to explore new framework for enhanced defense cooperation

Marcos, Luxon agree to explore new framework for enhanced defense cooperation

Published Apr 18, 2024 11:49 am

The Philippines and New Zealand committed to explore new defense options and strengthen their existing ties.

BBM PM Luxon.jpg
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon meet at the Malacanan Palace on April 18, 2024 for a bilateral meeting. (Noel B. Pabalate)

In their joint statement on Thursday, April 18, President Marcos and New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon acknowledged the strong existing defense cooperation between the two countries and agreed to explore new options for enhanced cooperation.

Both leaders have "committed to maintaining and strengthening defense engagements while exploring (a) new framework of cooperation to deepen defense ties."

They also "committed to the signing of a Mutual Logistics Supporting Arrangement (MLSA) by the end of 2024, and to concluding a Status of Visiting Forces Agreement (SOVFA)."

During their bilateral talks, both officials exchanged views on regional and global developments, including the situation in the South China Sea.

"On the South China Sea, President Marcos and Prime Minister Luxon expressed shared serious concerns over recent developments. They reaffirmed the right of freedom of navigation and overflight and other lawful uses of the seas accorded by international law particularly the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)," the joint statement read.

"They reaffirmed the need for all states to pursue peaceful resolution of disputes in accordance with international law, including dispute settlement mechanisms under UNCLOS," it added.

The two leaders also reaffirmed that all parties must fully implement the 2002 Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea, and reiterated their support for ASEAN-led efforts for the early conclusion of an effective and substantive Code of Conduct for the South China Sea.

Marcos and Luxon also reaffirmed their commitment to sustaining maritime security cooperation, including bilateral and multilateral activities at sea, port calls, and capacity-building efforts.

Luxon is in Manila for an official visit.

Related Tags

New Zealand defense ties President Marcos New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon
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