Canada and Philippines Nearing Agreement to Deploy Troops on Each Other’s Soil

Canada’s Ambassador to Manila Confirms Negotiations

Canada and the Philippines are in the final stages of negotiating a pact to allow them to deploy troops on each other’s soil, according to Canada’s ambassador to Manila, David Hartman. The agreement would enable deeper cooperation and more substantive participation in training to build capacity between the two nations.

Philippines navy seamen watch the Canadian vessel HMCS Montreal during a multilateral maritime exercise in the West Philippine Sea on Aug 7, 2024. (Philippines navy pic)

Similar Agreements Already in Place

The Philippines already has similar visiting forces agreements with the US and Japan, and is also in talks with France and New Zealand in the face of China’s growing assertion of claims to the South China Sea. The agreement with Canada would be the latest addition to the country’s growing network of military partnerships.

Negotiations in Final Stages

Hartman stated that the negotiations are in the final stages, with the signing and ratification of the agreement by both governments expected before the end of 2025. Canadian officials held discussions last month with counterparts from the Philippine defence and foreign departments.

Increased Cooperation and Training

The agreement would allow for future participation by Canadian troops in large-scale joint military exercises held every year between the Philippines and the US. Hartman emphasized the importance of the agreement in deepening cooperation and building capacity between the two nations.

Canadian Navy’s Role in South China Sea

The Canadian navy has taken part in recent months in several patrols in the South China Sea with the US, Australia, the Philippines, and Japan to assert freedom of navigation and flights in a strategic waterway claimed almost in whole by Beijing.

Conclusion

The agreement between Canada and the Philippines would mark a significant step forward in their military cooperation and demonstrate their commitment to regional security and stability. As tensions continue to rise in the South China Sea, the agreement would provide a strong foundation for future cooperation and training between the two nations.

FAQs

Q: What is the purpose of the agreement between Canada and the Philippines?
A: The agreement would enable deeper cooperation and more substantive participation in training to build capacity between the two nations.

Q: What are the benefits of the agreement?
A: The agreement would allow for future participation by Canadian troops in large-scale joint military exercises held every year between the Philippines and the US, and would deepen cooperation and build capacity between the two nations.

Q: When is the agreement expected to be signed and ratified?
A: The signing and ratification of the agreement by both governments is expected before the end of 2025.