Canada and Philippines Deepen Defense Ties Amidst China's Assertiveness in the South China Sea

Canada and Philippines Deepen Defense Ties Amidst China's Assertiveness

Canada and the Philippines are finalizing a key defense agreement to conduct larger military exercises, responding to China's "provocative actions" in the region.

Canada is bolstering its Indo-Pacific presence, promoting the rule of law and expanding trade, aligning with the Philippines' strategy to strengthen its external defense.

The two countries are finalizing a "status of forces visiting agreement" to enable "more substantive participation in joint and multilateral training exercises and operations," according to Canadian Ambassador David Hartman.

This announcement comes as the Philippines actively engages in multinational patrols and drills with the U.S., Japan, France, Australia, and Canada, drawing China's ire. China claims sovereignty over the South China Sea, deploying coast guard and naval vessels to assert its claims, leading to territorial disputes with the Philippines and other countries.

Canada joined the U.S., Australia, and the Philippines in air and naval maneuvers in the South China Sea last August to promote the rule of law and unhindered passage. China responded with its own air and sea patrols.

"We have been vocal in confronting the provocative and unlawful actions of China in the South China Sea and the West Philippine Sea," Hartman stated. "We will continue to do so."

Canada and the Philippines signed a defense cooperation agreement last year. Another agreement provided the Philippines access to Canada's "Dark Vessel Detection System" to track illegal vessels.

The Philippines has visiting forces agreements with the U.S. and Australia, and is in talks over similar pacts with Japan, France, and New Zealand.