Philippines and Germany announced on Sunday their commitment to signing a defense cooperation arrangement within the year. This new partnership aims to uphold the international rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific region, as tensions escalate between China and the Philippines.
Bilateral Cooperation and Military Modernization
During a historic visit by German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius to Manila—the first by a German defense minister—the two nations pledged to enhance their military relations. Philippine Defence Secretary Gilberto Teodoro and Pistorius discussed plans to expand training, increase bilateral exchanges, and explore joint armaments projects. Teodoro expressed the Philippines’ interest in German military technology to aid in its defense modernization efforts, particularly in command and control, anti-access aerial denial, and maritime and aerial domains.
Addressing Regional Tensions
The announcement comes amid heightened tensions between China and the Philippines. The two countries have recently clashed over incidents in the disputed South China Sea, including allegations that China deliberately rammed Philippine navy boats, injuring a Filipino sailor. China asserts sovereignty over most of the South China Sea, which is contested by several nations including the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, and Indonesia. The Permanent Court of Arbitration in 2016 ruled against China’s expansive claims, a decision China continues to reject.
Germany’s Support for Maritime Border Integrity
Pistorius reaffirmed Germany’s support for the international ruling, emphasizing the importance of strengthening maritime borders. “This ruling remains valid, without any exceptions,” he said. The South China Sea, a crucial trade route with over $3 trillion in annual trade, is central to the region’s security dynamics.
Philippines’ Position on South China Sea Disputes
Teodoro reiterated that the Philippines is not seeking conflict but remains firm in its stance against China’s claims. “The only cause of conflict in the waterway is China’s illegal and unilateral attempt to appropriate most if not all of the South China Sea,” he said.