Canadian Foreign Minister eyes stronger economic, security cooperation in PH visit

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, May 15) — Canadian Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly will be traveling to the Philippines from May 18 to 21 to boost the bilateral cooperation between Ottawa and Manila. During the visit, the Canadian minister is also expected to discuss their Indo-Pacific Strategy which varies from economic, people to people ties to security cooperation.

Joly is the second Canadian minister to visit the Philippines this year. She is the fourth minister to travel to Manila since President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. took office last year.

A statement released by Global Affairs Canada said Canada’s top diplomat will be meeting with Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo and other key Cabinet officials to discuss regional security and stability, and maintenance of a rules-based international order.

The Canadian minister will also be meeting with government officials, academics, non-governmental organizations, and civil society leaders to tackle key challenges facing the Philippines today.

The two countries will “seek ways to enhanced cooperation in combating climate change, protecting marine environments and building more resilient and inclusive, prosperous societies.”

Canada’s Indo-Pacific strategy ‘priority’ during PH visit

Minister Joly is also expected to expound on Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy and partnership with ASEAN during her discussions in Manila.

“The Indo-Pacific is the global center of economic dynamism and is of strategic importance to our security. What brings our countries together is our unwavering commitment to democracy, prosperity, and a free, open and sustainable Indo-Pacific, rooted in the rule of law. Canada continues to deepen relationships in the region with key partners, including Korea and the Philippines,” Joly said in a statement.

Canada says that the Indo-Pacific region will play a crucial in its future in the next half-century.

The Indo-Pacific region is composed of 40 economies with over four billion people and an estimated $47.19 trillion in economic activity.

“The Philippines is one of the fastest growing economies in the Indo-Pacific region creating commercial, development and climate finance opportunities for Canada,” the statement read.

Canada’s Indo-Pacific strategy also revolve on strategic objectives and initiatives on promoting security, expanding trade, investment and supply chain, investing in and connecting people, building a sustainable and green future and Canada being an engaged partner in the Indo-Pacific.