The two Southeast Asian neighbours have agreed to elevate their ties to an enhanced strategic partnership, pledging closer co-operation on defence, maritime security and digital trade during talks in Manila.
In Manila on Monday, the leaders of Vietnam and the Philippines – Tô Lâm and Ferdinand Marcos Jr – oversaw the signing of a series of bilateral agreements, including a memorandum of understanding on defence co-operation. The two sides also agreed to work together on digital transformation, tourism (with a plan for 2026–2029), and education.
Marcos described the talks as “comprehensive and successful,” reaffirming a shared commitment to regional stability. On security, the focus is on maritime co-operation and tackling transnational threats, from online fraud to people trafficking. Vietnam, the Philippines’ 11th largest trading partner, intends to deepen economic ties in manufacturing and the digital economy.
Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to the peaceful resolution of disputes in the South China Sea (known in Vietnam as the East Sea) based on international law, including the 1982 UNCLOS, as well as supporting ASEAN’s drive towards security and prosperity. The outcome of the talks was the elevation of bilateral relations to an enhanced strategic partnership.
