EU and Philippines Forge Stronger Maritime Security Partnership

The European Union is prepared to enhance cooperation with the Philippines on maritime security in the Indo-Pacific region, according to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. During a meeting with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., they discussed various topics including security, trade, and climate change. The EU expressed support for the 2016 international arbitration ruling that invalidated China's expansive claims in the South China Sea, and emphasized the importance of a free and open Indo-Pacific. The leaders also discussed the relaunch of negotiations for a free trade agreement and the EU's support for the Philippines' fight against climate change.