The European Union and the Philippines: A partnership for stability and growth

The European Union’s partnership with the Philippines has gone from strength to strength. Our buzzing trade relations, our cooperation on disaster relief and our joint work on confronting global challenges are all examples of the ever deeper links that bind us. Today, the country’s vibrant democracy and dynamic economy make the Philippines animportant political and economic partner for the EU in Southeast Asia.

Next week, Mrs Ashton, the EU High Representative, will visit the Philippines to mark just how important closer political ties with the Philippines are for the EU. Recently we have also had the pleasure to receive both Vice-President Binay and Foreign Secretary Del Rosario in Brussels. The deepening of our bilateral relations with the Philippines is part of our overall drive to deepen the EU’s role in Asia.

Europe has long been the largest investor in the Philippines. More than a third of all foreign investments in the Philippines come from the EU. Last year EU exports to the Philippines surged by a remarkable 19% while Philippine investment in Europe was also up 14%.

Impressive as these figures may be, there is still great potential to step up our bilateral trade and investment. As the Philippines seeks to increase agricultural exports and manufacturing, it will find a natural partner in the EU. We are home to the world’s largest integrated market of 500 million consumers and the largest importer of agricultural produce from developing countries.

The strategic location of the Philippines makes it a vital partner for the EU on global security. Closer regional integration is an essential element of fostering stability in the region and beyond. As a founding member, the Philippines is a key partner in the EU’s longstanding support for ASEAN. Together we must ensure that the emerging security architecture in South East Asia contributes to peace, stability and the rule of law in the South China Sea.

Our efforts will also be crucial for our economic prosperity. Over half of world trade passes through the South China Sea. That’s why the EU takes a lead in the EU-ASEAN high level dialogue on maritime security where we focus on port security, maritime surveillance and the joint management of resources such as fisheries, oil and gas.

Today security is no longer a concept contained in national borders. Instability in one region can have negative effects on the other end of the globe. Libya, Syria or Somalia may be as distant from the Philippines as Southeast Asia is from Europe. Yet, protecting our citizens from exploitation, piracy or terrorism requires engagement far beyond our shores. By working together, the EU and the Philippines make an important contribution to global security and prosperity.

The EU’s ATALANTA anti-piracy operation off the Horn of Africa protects European ships and Filipino seafarers alike. It also sustains our dynamic trade — most of which is conducted by sea. The EU’s work with international partners to fight piracy and foster regional stability makes ATALANTA a model for international co-operation. Together we can deliver results for our societies that no single nation can achieve alone.

The Philippines can also count on the EU’s lasting support for peace and development in Mindanao. As a leading force for peace building and mediation, we have contributed to the peaceful resolution of disputes across the globe. With the conclusion of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro, the Philippines has achieved a true milestone in delivering peace and stability on its own soil. At this critical juncture in the peace process, the EU is ready to support all parties with our specialised resources and lay the foundations for lasting peace.

In her daily work, the High Representative sees that peace and stability cannot be taken for granted. They need to be cherished and defended to allow our societies to prosper.  As a new chapter in our partnership opens, the European Union is committed to continue to support the positive social and economic development that will benefit all Filipinos.Guy Ledoux Ambassador of the European Union