Delegation of the Department of National Defence of the Philippines has visited the Ministry of National Defence

Vice Minister of National Defence Tomas Godliauskas and Defence Policy Director Vaidotas Urbelis received a delegation of the Department of National Defence of the Philippines. They discussed bilateral defence cooperation, opportunities for defence industrial cooperation between Lithuania and the Philippines and a closer dialogue between the academia and industry community with Undersecretary for Defence Technology Research and Industry Development Rene S. Diaz.

"Lithuania's defence industry is developing at pace. Our strategic effort already yields successful military hi-tech companies - many of those have already been battle-tested in Ukraine and proven effective. This gives us unique experience and valuable know-how to be shared," said Defence Policy Director V. Urbelis at the meeting.

V. Urbelis briefed the guests on Lithuania's work to strengthen cooperation with the defence industry, encourage investment and develop financial instruments to simplify technological innovation challenges. Another topic discussed was the recently passed Law on Defence and Security Industry further on used as the basis for drawing a list contracts and technology deemed necessary for defence capability development.

Next, the officials addressed industrial cooperation, the Green Corridor initiatives, and other themes concerning defence industry. V. Urbelis underscored that Lithuania aimed to deepen the ties with the Philippines and saw scientific research in the area of defence industry and experimental development as an excellent kickstart.

When discussing the threat posed by Russia, security situation in Ukraine and China, both sides agreed to arrange talks in order to enhance intelligence sharing, and to take stock of the nearest exercises for military contact-building.

The Filipino representatives also toured Lithuanian defence industry companies, met with different associations, agreed to invite Lithuanian companies to defence industry exhibitions in the Philippines.

The bilateral relations between the Philippines and Lithuania is gaining importance, particularly in the area of security and defence. Lithuania is implementing the Strategy for Defence Engagement in the Indo-Pacific Region by consistently strengthening the ties with partners in the region.