UK defense official in PH to discuss maritime security, reaffirm ties

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 12) — The United Kingdom's Minister of State for Defence Baroness Annabel Goldie is in the country in a bid to further strengthen ties with the Philippines.

In an interview with CNN Philippines on Thursday, Goldie said the relationship between the two countries is important as both share the same values.

«The United Kingdom and the Philippines are aligned in wanting to stand up for international law, wanting to have the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea both respected and implemented,» Goldie told CNN Philippines' News Night.

She also said the relationship encompasses more than just those matter.

«We're engaging in diplomatic activity, commercial activity,» Goldie said. «We're looking at where we can provide training. And I've been exploring in my visit here opportunities that may assist the United Kingdom in being able to further support the Philippines.»

The minister earlier met with officials from the Philippine Coast Guard and discussed efforts to uphold maritime security.

She also met with Navy Chief Admiral Toribio Adaci Jr. and talked about the Sama Sama (Together) exercises designed to enhance interoperability and fostering regional cooperation among various nations in countering «non-traditional challenges that transcend our borders.»

Goldie was also met by Philippine defense officials to identify areas of expertise which can be shared by both countries.

«We want the Philippines to feel supported, and that is part of my visit here,» she said.

In a statement posted on the official website of the UK, Goldie said, «The UK remains committed to our relationship with the Philippines, and I am pleased both to be visiting for the first time and to be the first UK Defence Minister to visit in many years.»

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