The Philippines and The EU discussed enhanced cooperation in a wide range of areas during the fourth Joint Commission meeting in Manila, with the aim of taking their relationship to a ‘higher level’. They exchanged views on a wide range of topics, including trade, human rights, maritime cooperation, green transformation, and cyber security, and confirmed positive progress.
Cooperation areas expanded, progress made in FTA negotiations
Niclas Kvarnström, Managing Director of the Asia-Pacific Division of the EU External Affairs Service (EEAS), co-chaired the Joint Commission meeting. He stated, “We agreed to deepen our relations in various areas and to explore the possibility of elevating them to a new stage overall.” Representing the Philippines was Maria Teresa Lazaro, Undersecretary for Bilateral Relations at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Significant attention was given to the progress of the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations. The first round of talks was described as “very constructive,” with both parties aiming to finalize the agreement by 2027. Currently, the EU is the Philippines’ fourth-largest trading partner and seeks to enhance its position further.
Kvarnström expressed confidence that the goals will be achieved, saying, ‘FTA negotiations are always difficult between partners, but it is clear that there is political will on both sides.’
Advancing Human Rights and Governance
The European Union praised the Philippines for its substantial improvements in human rights. They highlighted progress in strengthening civil society, ensuring freedom of speech, and protecting independent voices. Kvarnström commended the Philippine government for its proactive willingness to engage in discussions on these important issues. He emphasized the ongoing dialogue about the importance of good governance and upholding the rule of law, which further solidifies the country’s commitment to democratic principles.
The Philippines and The EU’s Maritime Cooperation
Maritime cooperation was another important topic of discussion. Both sides reaffirmed the importance of a rules-based order in the South China Sea and agreed to strengthen cooperation in maritime security and combating illegal fishing.
For the Philippines, the South China Sea issue is an international point of contention over territorial rights, and the EU’s support is significant. The joint stance expressed at the meeting underlined the Philippines’ leading role in regional security.
Green Transformation and Infrastructure Projects
The EU presented plans to support the Philippines’ green transformation through the promotion of sustainable infrastructure projects and digitalization. Specifically, projects on renewable energy and environmental protection were discussed, confirming that both sides have common goals.
Future Prospects Between The Philippines and The EU
The fifth meeting of the Joint Committee is set to take place in Brussels in 2024. This upcoming meeting aims to further advance the progress of the FTA negotiations and the implementation of specific projects.
Relations between the Philippines and EU are evolving into a new dimension through a diverse range of cooperation areas, including trade, human rights, environmental issues, and regional security. This meeting represents a significant step in establishing the foundations for future collaboration between both parties.
