Yesterday, the Honourable Maninder Sidhu, Minister of International Trade, met with Gilberto E. Teodoro Jr., Secretary of National Defense of the Philippines, in Manila.
Minister Sidhu highlighted the defence cooperation between both countries and welcomed progress toward the Philippines' ratification of the Status of Visiting Forces Agreement, which will allow the Canadian Armed Forces and the Armed Forces of the Philippines to work more closely together.
Minister Sidhu and Secretary Teodoro Jr. spoke about strengthening collaboration between Canadian defence firms in sectors such as air, maritime, cyber, training and land systems as well as Filipino partners for future procurement and supply chain opportunities in the Philippines. They also reaffirmed the importance of upholding a rules-based international order and adherence to international law.
Minister Sidhu looks forward to continuing working with Secretary Teodoro Jr. and hopes to welcome him soon to Canada to facilitate discussions with Canadian companies.
