Danish FM strengthens ties with the Philippines amid visit

The Philippines and Denmark have strengthened their partnership with new agreements focused on maritime collaboration, healthcare, and trade.

Yesterday, the Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen visited the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) headquarters in Manila, marking Denmark’s first high-level diplomatic visit to the Philippines in 25 years.

The visit underscored Denmark’s commitment to fostering maritime security and addressing global challenges through international cooperation. During his meeting with the PCG, Løkke discussed the Philippines’ ongoing maritime disputes in the South China Sea and explored opportunities to enhance coast guard capabilities.

“We share a strong interest in upholding international maritime law and ensuring freedom of navigation in these critical waters,” Løkke said.

Stronger maritime and healthcare ties

Later in the day, Løkke met with Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo to formalize agreements expanding cooperation. Both countries committed to improving the training of Filipino seafarers to meet European standards, reflecting Denmark’s reliance on Filipino workers in its robust shipping industry.

The leaders also agreed to strengthen ties in healthcare, with plans for a bilateral agreement ensuring ethical recruitment and sustainable training of Filipino professionals to meet Denmark’s growing demand. Renewable energy projects and trade initiatives were also highlighted as priorities for collaboration.

“As we approach 80 years of diplomatic relations, this partnership reflects the shared values and mutual benefits that unite our nations,” Manalo remarked.

Denmark, a “big maritime nation” preparing to join the UN Security Council in 2025, reaffirmed its role in supporting global maritime standards while fostering sustainable growth and security in the region.

Sources: Manila Bulletin / Phil Star

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