Mr. Speaker, as outlined in Canada’s Indo-Pacific strategy, Canada has committed to expanding existing military capacity-building initiatives that advance joint priorities and interoperability with regional partners, including the Philippines.
As part of this commitment, National Defence is in the process of negotiating a non-legally binding defence co-operation arrangement, or memorandum of understanding, MOU, with its counterpart in the Philippines. The MOU will provide a framework for co-operation between Canada and the Philippines in the field of defence and military matters. This may include co-operation in the areas of defence and security policy, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, and maritime security, among others.
Prior to entering into an MOU, National Defence ensures compliance with all applicable federal laws and government policies, directives and guidelines, including those established by Global Affairs Canada. Canada supports efforts by the Philippines to advance inclusive and accountable governance, diversity, human rights and the rule of law. The negotiation process, which is under way, involves various levels of consultations, including those among federal departments; as such, specific details have yet to be determined.