By Christina Mendez
MANILA, Philippines – While the visit of two Russian warships will boost bilateral ties between the Philippines and Russia, the Palace recognized yesterday the need for a formal agreement before the two countries’ military forces can engage in joint training and exercises.
Presidential spokesman Ernesto Abella issued the clarification as he revealed that President Duterte was open to joint military exercises with Moscow.
After almost a week on vacation, Duterte is expected to visit today the Russian anti-submarine vessel Admiral Tributs docked at the South Harbor. With Tributs is sea tanker Boris Botuma.
Abella said Duterte has shown keen interest in bolstering ties with Russia. The Chief Executive has also voiced his desire for military cooperation with China.
“The President has said before that he is open to joint military exercises with Russia. The goodwill visit by the Russian navy will contribute to the strengthening of friendship with the Philippine Navy,” Abella said in a Palace briefing.
The Palace’s statement came a day after the United States downplayed a flourishing military cooperation between Manila and Moscow.
“It is also an indication that our maritime cooperation can further be enhanced to enable diplomacy and camaraderie,” the President’s spokesman added.
Quoting Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, Abella explained any training or maneuver arrangement with another country requires a legal document such as a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).
Asked about Duterte’s earlier statement that he did not want any foreign troops in the country, Abella said what the President meant was he was against permanent presence of foreign troops.
Lorenzana visited Moscow last month and discussed with Russian Deputy Defense Minister Anatoly Antonov expanding Philippines-Russia defense cooperation.
Read the full story at The Philippine Star