PH, Netherlands vow deeper cooperation on defense, security

The Philippines and Netherlands affirmed bilateral relations as they vowed deeper coordination on defense and security matters, specifically battling cybercrimes, and espionage. 

At the sidelines of the 21st International Institute for Strategic  Studies (IISS) Shangri-La Dialogue, Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro, Jr. and  Dutch Defense Minister Kajsa Ollongren pledged to enhance coordination on numerous issues and global concerns. 

"We look forward to engaging The Netherlands in combatting cybercrime and espionage issues,” said Teodoro Jr. 

Ollongren said the Dutch government “can relate to the security concerns of  the Philippine government” and that the countries are “moving in the right direction.” 

The IISS Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore was conducted from May 31 to June 2. It was attended by global leaders including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy who participated at the annual event to gather support from the Asia-Pacific region for a peace summit planned for June 15 to June 16 in Switzerland.—Sundy Locus/LDF, GMA Integrated News