Defense Secretary Delfin N. Lorenzana is in constant communication among his counterparts in the Asia-Pacific (AsPac) region with matters related to the raging novel coronavirus (Covid-19) security cooperation and regional security on top on the list of concerns.
The defense secretary held a conference call with Japan’s Defense Minister Taro Kono in the middle of this month wherein both officials discussed wide- ranging issues and exchanged best practices on their respective country’s response to Covid-19.
Both officials shared the efforts taken by the Armed Forces of the Philippines and Japan Self-Defense Force in response to the pandemic.
Lorenzana and Kono also looked into the issue of security in the region with focus on the East and South China Seas and discussed how they could further enhance defense cooperation with the goal of promoting peace, security and regional growth.
Less than a week ago, Lorenzana also held a teleconference call with China’s State Counselor and Defense Minister General Wei Fenghe where the Philippines defense chief “expressed his appreciation for the donation of medical supplies and equipment worth RMB 2 million that was turned over on 12 May.”
“Both sides committed to sustain dialogues amidst the pandemic and strengthen cooperation between the two defense establishments in commemoration of the 45th anniversary of Philippines-China diplomatic relations this year,” the defense department said in a news statement issued on Monday.
On May 21, Lorenzana spoke with Australian Defense Minister Linda Reynolds where they discussed security issues, including terrorism and the region’s security.
During their teleconference, Reynolds conveyed her country’s intention to support the procurement of hospital equipment amounting to AUD 1 million for a 30-bed expansion of the V. Luna Medical Center (VLMC) infectious disease ward.
Canberra plans to pursue the project through the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Program (E-DCP).
“We are very thankful for this assistance to the V. Luna Medical Center, Madame Minister, and we hope to see its completion in the near future so that we can use it for the purpose it was being built,” Lorenzana said.
On the other hand, Reynolds also extended her gratitude to the government’s support in evacuating Australians from the Philippines caught by the lockdown and commended the National Action Plan against Covid-19, which Lorenzana heads.
Image credits: AP/Bullit Marquez
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