Philippines, Canada to elevate ties to strategic partnership

Philippines, Canada to elevate ties to strategic partnership

The Philippines and Canada have agreed to bolster cooperation on defense, security and trade.

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is on a four-day official visit to Canada on the invitation of Prime Minister Mark Carney. Following their meeting on Thursday, the two leaders said bilateral relations have been elevated to a strategic partnership.

Carney said in a news conference that this is a pivotal moment for Canada and the Philippines, when the world is "more dangerous" and "divided." He added, "Old alliances are being tested as new threats emerge."

Marcos said they spoke about the importance of peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific, and Canada's increasing engagement in the region.

The Philippines has been deepening partnerships amid territorial disputes with China over the South China Sea.

Manila and Ottawa signed the Status of Visiting Forces Agreement in November. The pact is expected to help armed forces from the countries jointly train and operate more closely.

The two leaders also agreed to strengthen bilateral trade. Canada aims to diversify its economy as it faces a difficult trade relationship with the United States.