The Philippines and the European Union have agreed to launch a security and defense dialogue to jointly counter emerging cross-border threats, some of which involve China.
This was reported by Reuters, citing the countryʼs Foreign Minister Enrique Manalo.
The statement was made during a visit to Manila by EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas.
According to Manalo, the new format will allow both sides to remain “proactive and united” in combating modern cross-border challenges such as cyberattacks, external interference and information manipulation. Kallas, in turn, emphasized that the dialogue will become a platform for deepening cooperation, exchanging experiences and launching joint initiatives in the field of security.
The move is part of a broader partnership and cooperation agreement signed between the EU and the Philippines in 2012 and in force since 2018. Kallas stressed the EUʼs commitment to supporting international law, peace and stability in the face of tensions in the South China Sea and Russiaʼs war in Ukraine, and condemned any unilateral attempts to change the status quo through coercion — a nod to Chinaʼs actions in the region.
In mid-April, an unarmed border conflict broke out between China and the Philippines. The Chinese landed on the uninhabited island of Sandy Cay in the South China Sea and unfurled their flag there. A few days later, the Filipinos did the same on the same island.
Over the past decade, Beijing has significantly intensified its island raiding. It has increased patrols, created artificial islands with military personnel and bases, and seized others.
The Chinese first surround an island controlled by another country with fishing boats. Then, maritime police, coast guard, and warships are brought in. In this way, the island is cut off from outside support, food, and water supplies, and is eventually captured. In this expansion, China is opposed by the Philippines and Vietnam.
The launch of the security dialogue reflects the desire of both sides to reduce their dependence on the US, as the EU and the Philippines are uncertain about future steps from the Donald Trump administration.
Author: Oleksandr Bulin
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