Defense Secretary Lorenzana in virtual meetings with foreign counterparts
MANILA – Defense Secretary Delfin N. Lorenzana had several teleconferences with his counterparts from Japan, China and Australia where he discussed difference concerns affecting their respective countries.
In a press statement released today, the Department of National Defense said Secretary Lorezana and Japanese Defense Minister Taro Kono discussed experiences and best practices in addressing COVIC-19 pandemic. They talked about the measures undertaken by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Japan Self-Defense Force (JSDF) in their own countries. They also talked about the current situation in the region, including but not limited to the South China Sea and East China Sea and how to strengthen the existing bilateral defense cooperation founded on common goals of peace, security and growth in the region, The meeting took place last May 12,2020.
Secretary Lorenzana had a “phone call” meeting with General Wei Fenghe, State Councilor and Defense Minister of the People’s Republic of China last Wednesday, May 20,2020 where the Filipino official expressed his. Appreciation for the donation of medical supplies and equipment amounting to RMB 2 million (US$280,061).
Both parties committed to maintain dialogues amidst the pandemic and further c oopration between the two defense establishments in celebration of the 45th anniversary of the Philippines-China diplomatic relations this year.
Last Thursday, May 21, Secretary Lorenzana received information from Australian Defense Minister Linda Reynolds of her government’s intent through the Enhanced Defence Cooperation Program (E-DCP), to support the procurement of hospital equipment amounting to AUD 1 million for a 30-bed expansion of the Victoriano Luna Medical Center (VLMC) Infectious Disease Ward.
“We are very thankful for this assistance to the V. Luna Medical Center, Madam 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,” Secretary Lorenzana said.
Minister Reynolds relayed Australia’s gratitude in evacuating Australian Nationals from the Philippines and commended the leadership in implementing the National Action Plan (NAP) against COVID-19.
They likewise expressed concern on other security matters including terrorism and overall regional security. (Melo M. Acuña)
Defense Secretary Delfin N. Lorenzana (File Photo/Melo Acuna)
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