Philippines, Vietnam Upgrade to Strategic Partnership
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- Philippines and Vietnam agreed to elevate their relationship to an enhanced strategic partnership during a state visit by Vietnamese leader To Lam, announced by President Ferdinand Marcos in Manila.
- Vietnam’s To Lam called the Philippines an “important regional partner” and emphasized a joint commitment to peace, stability, and a rules‑based order in the region.
- Marcos reaffirmed that maintaining freedom of navigation and overflight in the South China Sea is non‑negotiable, citing UNCLOS and the 2016 arbitral ruling that rejected most of China’s claims.
- Philippines and Vietnam have increased high‑level military contacts, including joint naval patrols, training, and their first joint coast guard exercise in 2024.
- Lam laid a wreath at Manila’s Rizal Monument and planned a Senate visit that was later canceled amid political controversy.
Why it matters: The new partnership gives Manila and Hanoi a stronger joint platform for naval patrols and legal advocacy, bolstering their ability to contest China’s South China Sea claims and protect vital sea lanes.
