Opening remarks of Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert Del Rosario at the 2nd PHL-U.S. Two-plus-Two Ministerial Dialogue
Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert F. del Rosario delivers his remarks at the opening of the second Philippines-US Two-plus-Two Ministerial Dialogue held at the US Department of State on January 12, 2016.
The 2nd Philippine-US 2 plus 2 Ministerial Consultations convened as we mark the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and the United States.
We reviewed the progress we have made since our first ministerial meeting, and welcomed the renewed focus on the area of maritime security and maritime domain awareness.
At our meeting this afternoon, which lasted for a total of 2 hours and 15 minutes, we looked at our robust cooperation in defense and security, economic cooperation – trade, investments, tourism, and development cooperation.
In terms of defense and security, we discussed concrete ways to leverage the alliance to contribute to the stability and prosperity of our region.
We welcomed the 2nd Millenium Challenge Compact for the Philippines, which will build on the success of the first compact which has contributed to poverty alleviation, inclusive growth, and elimination of corruption.
Recognizing our shared stake in regional security and stability, we discussed common challenges such as countering violent extremism and climate change.
The recent validation by the Supreme Court of the constitutionality of the EDCA opens up new opportunities to further deepen our enduring alliance with the US, and we have committed to work towards the prompt and mutually beneficial implementation of this agreement.