President Marcos on Friday hailed the French government’s intention to participate in military exercises in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) amid the ongoing tension in the Indo-Pacific region.
During an interview on the sidelines of President Marcos’ sortie in General Santos City, President Marcos said he appreciates global support to the Philippines amid its challenges in the contested waters.
“We are grateful to all the different countries, even those from afar, who are ready to assist us,” he said.
This move reflects the increasing support from the international community to uphold the sovereign rights of the Philippines in the WPS.
President Marcos emphasized the importance of support from the international community in guaranteeing freedom of navigation in the WPS and ensuring that the global economy remains unaffected.
“So, to all who are helping us, all who are helping the Philippines, we express our gratitude, and this will be a big thing, a big help to ensure the peaceful and stable West Philippine Sea,” he added.
Officials from the Philippines and France are set to meet in Paris this month to discuss a defense pact between the two nations that would allow both parties to send their troops and participate in military exercises.
According to French Ambassador to the Philippines Marie Fontanel, the two countries would discuss a visiting forces agreement during the visit of the Philippine delegation.
“We will have an opportunity in May to maybe start officially the negotiations or, at least, discuss the modalities,” Fontanel said in a previous press conference.
France participated in the Balikatan exercises for the first time this year by sending its light surveillance frigate Vendémiaire that recently sailed across WPS waters.