DFA Secretary Enrique Manalo and Polish Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski met Wednesday to strengthen Philippines and Poland diplomatic relations.
Sikorski is in Manila from September 3 to 5 to meet with President Marcos Jr. and Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro. Both leaders discussed global security and increasing defense cooperation, with Poland affirming its support for the Philippines amid West Philippine Sea tensions, stressing the importance of respecting the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea. Sikorski last visited the Philippines in 2006 as defense minister.
Ukraine War and South China Sea tensions
Manalo and Sikorski discussed global issues like the Ukraine War and South China Sea tensions, emphasizing the connection between European and Indo-Pacific security. Sikorski condemned Russia’s actions, warning that undermining international norms in Ukraine could lead to similar conflicts elsewhere. He highlighted that Ukraine had relinquished its nuclear arsenal in exchange for Russian security guarantees, referencing the 2004 border treaty signed by President Putin. Sikorski expressed concern about Russia’s growing ties with China, noting the broader impact of coercive power politics on global stability.
“International treaties cannot be ignored like Vladimir Putin has done in Ukraine,” Sikorski stated. On the South China Sea, he emphasized Poland’s support for an open Indo-Pacific, free from coercion, and stressed the importance of freedom of navigation for global supply chains, urging a strong international response to any threats. Manalo and Sikorski also discussed boosting trade, particularly in agriculture, ICT, and outer space cooperation. Manalo invited Polish investments in industries like automotive, logistics, energy, and IT-BPO.
History of Philippines and Poland diplomatic relations
Diplomatic relations between Poland and the Philippines were established in 1973. Both countries have worked together primarily in trade, defense, and humanitarian efforts. Notable defense cooperation includes the purchase of Polish helicopters by the Philippines, particularly from the Polish company PZL Świdnik. These purchases have played a role in modernizing the Philippine military, although some deals faced scrutiny due to technical issues. In addition to arms sales, both nations have discussed expanding defense cooperation, particularly considering shared concerns over regional security and international norms, signaling potential future collaborations in defense strategies and military training. Poland has also supported the Philippines through humanitarian aid, including significant contributions after Typhoon Haiyan in 2013. Recent years have seen a renewed interest in bilateral relations, with both countries reopening embassies and holding high-level meetings to foster cooperation.
