French Joint Commander for Asia Pacific Rear Admiral Guillaume Pinget visited the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Thursday and discussed the potential expansion of bilateral military cooperation between Paris and Manila with AFP Deputy Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Jimmy Larida.
Both military leaders highlighted the importance of strengthening defense partnership through a series of initiatives, including possible bilateral activities, and a renewed commitment to modernization and training exchange aimed at improving operational readiness.
“This visit underscores the AFP’s commitment to fostering a more resilient partnership and advancing opportunities for engagement in areas of mutual defense interest while reinforcing commitment to regional stability and security,” the Philippine military said in a statement.
Last week, the navies of France, Japan and the United States engaged in Exercise Pacific Steller 2025, a multi-large deck event (MLDE) hosted by the French Navy and conducted in the Philippine Sea.
The exercise includes ships from the US Navy’s Vinson Carrier Strike Group (VINCSG), the French Carrier Strike Group, and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force.
Ranking officers of the participating navies said the MLDE aims to enhance coordination and collaboration among French, Japanese, and US maritime forces, showcasing their ability to conduct multi-domain operations.
It also underscores their commitment to regional stability and highlights the US Navy’s enduring power projection capabilities.