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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Canada expects conclusion of VFA talks with PH this year

Canada expects conclusion of VFA talks with PH this year

Published Jul 21, 2024 06:53 am

The Philippines and Canada are fast-tracking negotiations for a defense pact similar to the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) because “circumstances” necessitate a need for an agreement that is expected to be concluded within the year, Canadian Ambassador to the Philippines David Hartman said.
 Hartman_Canada.jpgCanadian Ambassador to the Philippines David Hartman (NewsWatch Plus screenshot)

 

In a “NewsWatch Plus” interview on Friday, July 19, the envoy shared that talks between the two countries began even before the memorandum of understanding (MOU) was concluded and that negotiations were happening “simultaneously” owing to Canada’s commitment to deepen its relationship with the Philippines.
 

“It has been a commitment to the government of Canada to be able do similarly with the Philippines in a more expedited basis,” he said, describing the soon-to-be-concluded agreement as similar to what the Philippines recently signed with Japan.
 

Early this month, Japanese Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa and Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilbert Teodoro Jr. signed the reciprocal access agreement (RAA) to strengthen both countries’ defense cooperation.
 

“So, we are exchanging drafts, texts now with the Department of National Defense here, between our Department of National Defense back in Canada,” Hartman added.
 

The ambassador also expressed optimism that the negotiations will be done before the end of the year.
 

“Ideally, certainly, within the next year. I mean ideally, frankly before the end of the calendar year. That certainly would be the level of our ambition again to conclude this so quickly,” he stressed.
 

“I’m very proud to highlight that the negotiations are moving along very quickly,” the envoy added.
 

This is possible because “like-minded partners” in the Philippines have been able to conclude their own negotiations.
 

“We are optimistic that we can also advance the timelines of what traditionally would have been much more lengthier process because I think of circumstances. And I think because of real tangible commitment on both sides—Canada and the Philippines. We are very hopeful we can conclude this sooner rather than later,” Hartman assured.

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