Expert pushes for expansion of Philippines partnerships in EU

MANILA, Philippines — The country should establish more strategic partnerships with like-minded states in the European Union, as it continues building up global alliances in response to new security realities unfolding.

This was according to international think-tank Stratbase ADR Institute president Dindo Manhit as he assessed the significance of the visit last week of Poland Minister of Foreign Affairs Rados?aw Sikorski, the first visit by a Polish minister in 20 years.

During the Polish official’s visit, Stratbase organized a forum on the impacts of regional conflicts on global security, where Sikorski delivered a keynote speech and participated in a panel discussion.

In the face of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, Stratbase said Poland has become a key player in Europe’s defense, much like the Philippines’ role in regional security against China’s actions in the West Philippine Sea.

“Through this exchange of strategies and experiences, we reinforce our shared commitment to upholding a rules-based international order, working together to secure a stable and prosperous future for our region,” Manhit said.

Since formalizing ties in 1973, the Philippines and Poland have steadily expanded cooperation across various fields including trade, economy and defense.

Manhit said the 51-year relationship between the Philippines and Poland highlights their commitment to deepening mutual understanding and collaboration.

He said the Philippines should participate in more strategic engagements with other friendly states in the EU, noting that “the bonds between the Philippines and Poland are a testament to what can be achieved when nations unite around shared values and common goals.”

“By continuing to collaborate, exchange knowledge and support one another, we can face the challenges of our time with confidence and resilience,” he said.

“Let us move forward together, inspired by our shared vision of a secure, stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific. With a steadfast commitment to partnership, we can build a future where peace and cooperation are the hallmarks of our region, ensuring a safer world for generations to come,” Manhit added.

In his speech, Sikorski cited the commonalities between the Philippines and Poland, particularly in having powerful neighbors that perceive unified defense of independence and sovereignty as an “inconvenience.”

“We share a philosophy that weakness provokes, and strength deters. And we need to build up our strength. (Poland and the Philippines) are both aspirational countries. We are countries that are still catching up and still have a lot of room to grow,” he said.

With Sikorski during his visit were the Polish deputy ministers for defense, agriculture and digitalization.

Sikorski called on the Philippines and the international community not to ignore the consequences of a possible Russian victory in Ukraine as it would have significant global impacts.