MANILA (Bernama-PNA): The Philippines and the European Union (EU) have agreed to establish a dialogue to deepen cooperation on defence and security, aimed at combating emerging challenges such as cyber threats, foreign interference, and information manipulation, Philippine News Agency (PNA) reported.

The Philippines’ Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo and the EU’s Chief Diplomat, High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas, made the announcement following a lunch meeting in Makati City on Monday.

Manalo said this mechanism will provide a platform for the Philippines and the EU to discuss security- and defence-related issues with more depth and regularity.

"As like-minded partners committed to a rules-based international order, we hope that through the security and defence dialogue, we will remain proactive and united in addressing emerging security threats and challenges that transcend borders,” said Manalo.

Kallas said the dialogue will allow exchange of expertise and explore possible joint initiatives on security and defence "that contribute to regional as well as global security.”

"Our work will be comprehensive and will include maritime security, cyber security, foreign information manipulation and interference, counterterrorism, crisis response, and more,” she said.

The two top diplomats said this new dialogue marks another milestone in Philippine-EU relations, which Kallas said is growing on a "positive trajectory.”

No date has been set for when the first meeting will be convened. - Bernama-PNA