Philippines, UAE sign security pact, eye defense deal

The Philippines and the United Arab Emirates signed a security cooperation agreement aimed at combating transnational and organized crime during Secretary Jonvic Remulla's visit to Abu Dhabi on April 21.

Philippine Ambassador Alfonso Ver said that a new defense agreement is in development, which would expand cooperation between the two nations in areas such as traditional armaments, cybersecurity threats, training, and information exchange.

The security cooperation agreement signed last week will guide future engagements between Philippine and UAE law enforcement institutions, while the upcoming defense agreement aims to facilitate dialogue on new technologies and possible acquisitions.

Ambassador Ver emphasized that discussions on a defense agreement had been ongoing for some time but gained momentum recently as both nations explore deeper areas of cooperation beyond migration and oil.

Manila and Abu Dhabi are also looking to sign investment agreements in critical minerals and air services, alongside the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), which aims to broaden economic ties.