Philippines and Australia Strengthen Partnership in Defense and Foreign Affairs Strategic Dialogue
(From left to right) Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade Deputy Secretary for Southeast Asia and Global Partners Group Michelle Chan, Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs Undersecretary for Bilateral Relations and ASEAN Affairs Ma. Theresa Lazaro, Philippine Department of National Defense Undersecretary for National Defense Irineo Espino, Australian Department of Defence Deputy Secretary for Strategy, Policy and Industry Group Hugh Jeffrey.
CANBERRA 24 March 2025 — Senior officials from the Philippines and Australia convened on 20 March 2024 for the 7th iteration of the Philippines-Australia Strategic Dialogue, reaffirming both nations' commitment to deepening cooperation on regional security, defense collaboration, and emerging areas of mutual interest.
The discussions focused on enhancing maritime cooperation, countering transnational crime, ASEAN chairship in 2026, and strategic alliances. There were also discussions on bolstering defense ties, such as maritime security, countering terrorism, defense infrastructure, and defense policies. Both sides also explored new areas for cooperation, including cybersecurity, climate resilience, and critical infrastructure, among others.
Australia emphasized its shared views with the Philippines on current challenges facing the South China Sea and the Indo-Pacific region. Australia also expressed continued support for the Philippines’ capacity building requirements and supply of operational assets.
The foreign affairs and defense officials reiterated their commitment to the 2023 Philippines-Australia Strategic Partnership and agreed to sustain high-level exchanges, joint exercises, and programs that enhance regional peace and stability.
The Philippine delegation also visited the ASEAN-Australia Center and Australia Office of National Intelligence. END