AFP vice chief of staff Lt. Gen. Arthur Cordura discusses defense and military cooperation with India's Defense Secretary Shri Giridhar Aramane during the latter's visit at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City on Wednesday, Sept. 11, 2024. (photo: AFP Facebook page)
Top officials of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) have discussed ways to further improve defense and security partnership with India during the visit of India’s Defense Secretary Shri Giridhar Aramane.
Shri Aramane arrived with the Indian defense and military delegation at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City on Wednesday Sept. 11 and among those discussed with AFP senior military officers were the possible for joint training and exercises.
“The visit highlighted the deepening defense and security partnership between the Philippines and India, underscoring shared commitments to regional stability and cooperation,” the AFP statement read.
“Discussions during the visit focused on enhancing bilateral defense relations, exploring opportunities for joint training and exercises, and sharing best practices in addressing common security challenges in the Indo-Pacific region,” it added.
Lt. Gen. Arthur Cordura, AFP vice Chief of Staff of the AFP, said the visit was in recognition of the significant role that India plays in promoting a free, open, and rules-based regional order.
The Philippines is currently locked in a dispute with China which has been insisting on its nine-dash line, which later turned into 10-dash line, in claiming ownership of the entire South China Sea.
China’s claim was already invalidated by a United Nations Tribunal ruling based on the case filed by the Philippine government.
But despite the ruling, China has been asserting its claim and was even accused of resorting to harassments of Philippine vessels even within the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone.
The visit of India’s defense and military delegation, according to Cordura, emphasized the importance of ongoing collaboration and engagements that contribute to the peace and security of both nations.
“The visit of Shri Aramane and the Indian defense delegation marks a significant step in strengthening the defense ties between the Philippines and India, fostering an environment of mutual respect and cooperation,” said Cordura.
“The AFP continues to build strong international partnerships that support its mission to protect national sovereignty and promote regional peace,” he added.