Philippines Advocates Enhanced Maritime Collaboration at EU–Indo-Pacific Forum Amid South China Sea Tensions

Department of Foreign Affairs Secretary Theresa Lazaro has called for intensified maritime cooperation during the Fourth EU–Indo-Pacific Ministerial Forum held in Brussels, addressing ongoing challenges posed by Beijing’s assertive claims and activities in the South China Sea.

In a social media statement dated November 22, Lazaro recounted engaging discussions with foreign ministers from Lithuania, Brunei, Slovenia, France, Ireland, and Malta, during which she highlighted the Philippines’ priorities as ASEAN Chair in 2026 and efforts to deepen bilateral relations.

She stated, "Meaningful exchanges with ministers and colleagues from Lithuania, Brunei, Slovenia, France, Ireland, and Malta at the 4th EU Indo-Pacific Ministerial Forum in Brussels; I shared the Philippines’ ASEAN 2026 Chairship priorities and initiatives to build our respective bilateral ties."

Lazaro also convened with Latvia’s Foreign Minister Baiba Braže, focusing on enhancing maritime domain awareness and safeguarding critical maritime infrastructure. Additionally, she expressed gratitude to Estonia’s Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna for co-chairing the Philippine-led Foreign Ministerial Meeting on Maritime Domain during the 80th United Nations General Assembly. Tsahkna highlighted their joint talks on cybersecurity, digital collaboration, and maritime security.

Furthermore, Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar engaged with Lazaro to review the full scope of bilateral relations and identify new avenues for cooperation.

The forum, chaired by the European Union’s High Representative Kaja Kallas on November 20-21, aimed to promote a resilient, prosperous, and secure future grounded in a rules-based international order, free trade, and adherence to the principles of the United Nations Charter.