17 March 2017 – H.E. Julie Bishop, Foreign Minister of Australia, had a candid and productive meeting with Acting Foreign Affairs Secretary, Enrique A. Manalo, to discuss the status of Philippines-Australia relations which were elevated to the status of Comprehensive Partnership in 2015.
Both officials exchanged views on the strong and robust relations between the two countries, characterized by frequent exchanges of high-level officials of the two sides, dynamic exchanges between defense officials, robust economic relations, strong development cooperation, and broad exchanges in education and disaster mitigation and risk reduction capacity building, among others.
The two officials also discussed significant regional developments including the West Philippine Sea. Acting Secretary Manalo said the Philippines is firm in its commitments towards international principles and norms that contribute to peace and stability in the area. He thanked Australia for its contribution to advocating a rules-based order in the South China Sea. Both officials acknowledged that the waters of the South China Sea have served as a valuable link between the Philippines and Australia for many centuries.
Acting Secretary Manalo and Minister Bishop looked forward to convening the 5th Philippines - Australia Ministerial Meeting (PAMM) possibly in December 2017, and other bilateral mechanisms that further enhance Philippines-Australia relations. Both acknowledged the long-standing relations between the two countries which have reached seventy (70) years in 2016.
Minister Bishop is also scheduled to call on President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on March 17 in Davao City to discuss bilateral relations in various areas, including political, economic and people to people cooperation.
Over 200,000 Filipinos in various professional fields live and work in Australia and they contribute to the development of both countries.
Acting Secretary Manalo said the visit of Minister Bishop “is an affirmation of Australia’s strong commitment to the Philippines as a Comprehensive Partner.”
H.E. Foreign Affairs Julie Bishop is in the Philippines from March 16 to 17. END