Philippines Advocates for Stronger Ties with Canada
Enrique Manalo, the foreign minister of the Philippines, is urging closer business and military partnerships with Canada to navigate the evolving geopolitical landscape in the Indo-Pacific region. In a recent interview, Manalo emphasized the importance of fostering peaceful relations with both the U.S. and China to maintain stability in the region.
Manalo’s visit to Vancouver, Toronto, and Ottawa this month coincides with the celebration of 75 years of bilateral relations between the Philippines and Canada. During his trip, he engaged with federal ministers on trade, immigration, aid, and diplomacy, aiming to sustain the positive momentum initiated by Canada’s Indo-Pacific strategy unveiled in late 2022.
Against the backdrop of heightened tensions between the Philippines and China over maritime boundaries, Manalo underscored the significance of upholding a global court ruling from 2016, which rejected Beijing’s claims over vast portions of the South China Sea. The Philippines views this ruling as vital for safeguarding its sovereignty and protecting the interests of its fishermen.
Vina Nadjibulla, from the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada, highlighted the Philippines’ proactive stance in publicly addressing territorial disputes with China. Recent incidents, including a confrontation involving Chinese coast-guard ships and a Philippine supply boat, underscore the complexities of navigating relations in the South China Sea.
Despite these challenges, Manalo emphasized the importance of maintaining open channels of communication with Chinese officials. Recognizing China as the Philippines’ largest trading partner, Manalo stressed the mutual interest in resolving differences through dialogue and cooperation.
As geopolitical dynamics continue to evolve in the Indo-Pacific, Manalo’s visit underscores the growing importance of strengthening ties between the Philippines and Canada to promote peace and stability in the region.
