Updated
Updated · INQUIRER.net · Jul 3
Canada to Ratify Visiting Forces Pact With Philippines as Marcos Marks 2016 Sea Ruling
Updated
Updated · INQUIRER.net · Jul 3

Canada to Ratify Visiting Forces Pact With Philippines as Marcos Marks 2016 Sea Ruling

3 articles · Updated · INQUIRER.net · Jul 3

Summary

  • Mark Carney said Canada will soon ratify the Status of Visiting Forces Agreement, clearing the way for Canadian and Philippine forces to train and operate more closely in joint exercises.
  • The pledge came as Ferdinand Marcos Jr. thanked Canada in Vancouver for backing a rules-based order in the South China Sea and recognizing the 2016 arbitral award as final and legally binding.
  • Carney tied the move to a broader push by middle powers to reinforce the international order through partnerships with like-minded countries, including deeper maritime security and multinational military cooperation.
  • Marcos also pressed for continued use of Canada’s Dark Vessel Detection Program in Philippine waters, saying it has strengthened maritime awareness and efforts against illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing.

Insights

With Canadian forces set to enter the fray, is the South China Sea on the brink of a new conflict?
Is Canada's Indo-Pacific strategy a true security commitment or just a cover for its economic ambitions?
Can the Philippines' new defense pact with Canada survive its simultaneous energy 'reset' with China?