France bucks use of force in territorial claims

PARIS – President Aquino and French President Francois Hollande discussed peace and security in the region and expressed their opposition to any acquisition or claim, by coercion or force, of any territory of a state by another state, in violation of international law, especially the charter of the United Nations.

Meeting for the first time during Aquino’s “milestone” visit here, the two leaders stressed their commitment to the peaceful resolution of disputes hewing to international law.

“Both leaders underscored the importance of maintaining peace and stability in Southeast Asia and promoting maritime security, freedom of navigation and the peaceful settlement of disputes in accordance with international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). They emphasized the importance of the full and effective implementation of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea and the early conclusion of a Code of Conduct in the South China Sea in fostering peace and stability in this part of the world,” a joint statement of the two leaders read.

Aquino received red carpet treatment from Hollande at the Élysée Palace, the official residence of the president of the French Republic, upon his arrival from Brussels in Belgium where he met with other European leaders.

The President’s first stop was Madrid in Spain.

Aquino and Hollande also welcomed the implementation of the new Philippines-France air services agreement and the re-establishment of direct flights between the Philippines and France that could boost the tourism sector of both countries.

On defense, both leaders welcomed the forthcoming signing of the updated Philippines-France Arrangement on Defense Cooperation by Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin and French Defense Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian.

“Renewing the 1994 agreement, it continues a framework of cooperation between the defense agencies and armed forces in both countries, particularly in the field of defense equipment, logistics and defense industries,” the statement read.

Aquino said the Philippines was in the process of modernizing its armed forces and improving its defense capability, "and we believe that France will be a reliable partner in this regard."