The Department of National Defense (DND) reaffirmed its commitment to strong defense cooperation with Bangladesh during a courtesy call by Commodore Md Hasan Tarique Mondal, Bangladesh Non-Resident Defense Adviser to the Philippines, on May 30.
During the meeting with Assistant Secretary Gavin D. Edjawan, Officer-in-Charge of the Office for Strategic Assessments and International Affairs/Assistant Secretary Financial Management, both sides highlighted the long-standing friendship between the two nations.
Edjawan conveyed the DND’s intention to explore cooperation on maritime security, counter-terrorism, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR), and peacekeeping operations, recognizing the Bangladesh’s extensive experience on peacekeeping operations, as one of the largest contributors to the United Nations (UN) Peacekeeping Missions.
Tarique welcomed this manifestation and conveyed Bangladesh’s willingness to share its experience and best practices with the Philippines.
The courtesy call provided an opportunity for both countries to exchange views on various regional and global humanitarian and security issues.
The two officials reaffirmed support for a rules-based international order, peaceful resolution of all conflicts, and respect for national sovereignty of all countries.
Tarique also underscored the Bangladeshi government’s efforst in balancing its relations with all countries.
On multilateral cooperation, the two officials discussed the developments in their respective regional organizations, namely the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) and ASEAN.
Tarique also emphasized Bangladesh’s efforts to enhance cooperation with the ASEAN Member States in all aspects, including defense relations.
On the other hand, Edjawan sought the support of Bangladesh for the Philippines’ candidature as a Non-Permanent Member to the UN Security Council.
Both officials looked forward to fostering a deeper bilateral defense relations between the two countries.
Edjawan also conveyed his appreciation to Tarique for visiting the DND and for a very substantive discussion.