European Union High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice President of the European Commission (HRVP) Kaja Kallas will be in the Philippines from June 1 to 2 to discuss ways “to further strengthen” the relationship between the Philippines and the regional bloc.
European Union High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice President of the European Commission Kaja Kallas (EU Photo)
In a statement, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said on Saturday, May 31, that this will be Kallas’ first visit to Manila since her appointment in December 2024.
“The visit marks a significant milestone in the diplomatic relations between the Philippines and the European Union, highlighting the shared commitment to open political dialogue and enhanced cooperation in pursuit of peace, stability, and sustainable development,” the statement read.
In a separate statement, the EU said that Kallas will meet with President Marcos and DFA Secretary Enrique Manalo on June 2. A press conference will be held after the meetings.
In her meeting with DFA Secretary Enrique Manalo, the two officials will aim to strengthen Philippines-EU relations “amidst challenging regional and international issues.”
She is also set to meet with other high-level Philippine government officials, such as Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Commandant Ronnie Gil Gavan and National Security Adviser (NSA) Eduardo Año.
EU’s top diplomat is scheduled to meet with students of the De La Salle University for a town hall meeting, as well as with civil society representatives.
The EU said that Kallas will first visit Singapore prior to the Manila leg of her trip.
In Singapore, she will deliver a speech during the second plenary session titled “Ensuring Stability in a Competitive World” at the IISS Shangri-La Dialogue, as well as meet with regional leaders.
The IISS Shangri-La Dialogue is Asia's premier defense summit, where ministers take part in debating about the region’s most pressing security issues. This year, it will run from May 30 to June 1.
While in Singapore, Kallas will meet with Singaporean President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan, and Minister of Defense Chan Chun Sing.