Philippines and Canada sign the Status of Forces Agreement
The Philippines and Canada signed the Status of Forces Agreement on Sunday in Manila, involving joint readiness exercises, expanding the security alliance to curb aggression.
AP news from Manila, the Philippine Department of Defense stated that Philippine Defense Secretary Teodoro met with Canadian Defense Minister Anand on Sunday in Manila, after which both sides signed the Status of Forces Agreement (SOVFA).
Philippine officials said that this is a key defense agreement, involving joint readiness exercises and expanding the security alliance to curb aggression.
Defense Secretary Teodoro of the Philippines said at the beginning of his meeting with Canadian Defense Minister Anand that the agreement is crucial for promoting "a rules-based international order and resisting the attempts of powerful countries to redefine norms for their own benefit."
The report said that Canada and other Western countries have been strengthening their military presence in the Indo-Pacific region to promote the rule of law in the region and expand trade and investment. This aligns with President Marcos's diplomatic strategy, which aims to assist the underfunded Philippine military in dealing with stronger opponents in disputed waters through defense cooperation with multiple countries.
Original: www.toutiao.com/article/1847697547456512/
Statement: The article represents the views of the author.