Philippines and Germany Team Up for Defense Against China’s Claims in South China Sea
Manila, August 5 – The Philippines Secretary of National Defence, Gilberto Teodoro, and German Federal Minister of Defence, Boris Pistorius, have agreed on a new defense partnership. This agreement aims to boost cooperation between their military forces and counter China’s expansion in the South China Sea.
Strengthening Ties
The meeting in Manila marked 70 years of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Germany. Both countries are keen to establish long-term military relations, expand defense training, and engage in joint projects.
Rising Tensions
Tensions between China and the Philippines have been escalating, especially after an incident in June where Chinese vessels rammed Filipino navy ships. Similar issues have been reported by Taiwan, another country facing China’s territorial claims.
International Law
China claims most of the South China Sea, despite a 2016 ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague, which stated that China’s claims have no legal basis. China has rejected this ruling.
Statements from Leaders
Teodoro emphasized that the conflict is due to China’s illegal claims. He stated, “The Philippines is not provoking China. We do not seek war, yet we are mandated to protect our areas.” Pistorius added, “It is important that we support and protect the rules-based international order.”
Global Support
Retired US Air Force Col. Raymond Powell and Aaron Jed Rabena from the University of the Philippines highlighted the importance of this partnership. They believe it strengthens the Philippines’ security network and shows its role in the global community.
Doubts Revealed
Philippines -: The Philippines is a country made up of many islands in Southeast Asia. It is located in the western Pacific Ocean.
Germany -: Germany is a country in Europe. It is known for its strong economy and rich history.
Defense Partnership -: A defense partnership is an agreement between two countries to work together to protect each other and improve their military strength.
China’s Claims -: China claims that a large part of the South China Sea belongs to them, but other countries, including the Philippines, disagree.
South China Sea -: The South China Sea is a large sea in Southeast Asia. Many countries around it, including China and the Philippines, have disputes over who owns parts of it.
Secretary of National Defence -: The Secretary of National Defence is the person in charge of the military and defense in the Philippines.
Federal Minister of Defence -: The Federal Minister of Defence is the person in charge of the military and defense in Germany.
Military Cooperation -: Military cooperation means that two countries’ armies work together, share knowledge, and train together to become stronger.
International Law -: International law is a set of rules that countries agree to follow to keep peace and order in the world.
Global Security -: Global security means making sure that the whole world is safe and peaceful, without wars or conflicts.
