Philippines, Australia sign intent for Defense Cooperation Agreement

The Philippines and Australia signed a statement of intent on Friday to pursue a Defense Cooperation Agreement that aims to boost security ties between the two nations.

This agreement is expected to be completed by next year, building upon the 1995 Memorandum of Understanding between the two countries.

Australian Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles stated during a media briefing in Makati City that the new agreement will include annual defense ministers' meetings and infrastructure development projects for the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. highlighted that the agreement is timely, as it can be signed next year when the Philippines hosts the ASEAN Summit meetings.

The statement also emphasizes cooperation in upholding international law and addressing shared challenges in the Indo-Pacific region.