Marcos, Australian PM to discuss defense, maritime affairs in PH visit —PCO

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and Australia Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will discuss defense and maritime affairs during the latter’s visit to the Philippines from September 7 to 8, the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) said on Friday.

In a statement, the PCO said Marcos is pleased to welcome Albanese for his upcoming official visit, which is the first visit by an Australian Prime Minister to the country since 2003.

“The President’s meeting with Prime Minister Albanese on 08 September is anticipated to reinforce this partnership, ushering in a new era of closer cooperation across key sectors, such as defense and security, trade, economic development, and maritime affairs,” the PCO said.

According to the PCO, Albanese’s visit follows a series of high-level engagements earlier this year between the Philippines and Australia.

On August 12, Reuters reported that Albanese said in a statement that he would travel to the Philippines in September to discuss defense and security cooperation.

Albanese will meet Marcos on September 8 to discuss strengthening cooperation on defense, maritime security and development.

"Our partnership with the Philippines is built on close defense and security cooperation, increasing economic relations and warm personal ties," Albanese said.

The Philippines and Australia discussed pursuing joint patrols in the South China Sea during a visit by Australia's Defense Minister Richard Marles in February.

Albanese will also travel in September to the ASEAN-Australia Summit in Jakarta, and the G20 Leaders Summit in New Delhi, the statement added. —VAL, GMA Integrated News