Manila: Highlighting the growing strategic ties between the two nations, the Philippine Navy (PN) on Thursday said it is eyeing “enhanced maritime cooperation” and relevant exercises with its Royal Australian Navy (RAN) counterparts.

According to Philippines News Agency, this announcement came after the PN hosted RAN representatives during the 8th Navy To Navy Talks (NTNT) held at its headquarters at Naval Station Jose Andrada, Roxas Boulevard, Manila on April 2.

“The PN-RAN NTNT provides an opportunity to engage in discussions on topics of mutual interest and explore opportunities for enhanced maritime cooperation. Key areas of focus include exercises, operations, intelligence, and personnel exchanges, all aimed at strengthening the strategic partnership between the Philippine and Australian Navies,” PN spokesperson Capt. Benjo Negranza said in a message to reporters on Thursday.

PN vice commander Maj. Gen Edwin Amadar and RAN Director General Maritime Operations, Commodore Jonathan Ley, served as co-chairs during this crucial meeting, he added.

‘As one of our closest strategic partners, the Philippines sees Australia as an important and credible partner in discussing how we can collectively move forward to realize the potential of our bilateral relations,’ Amadar said.

He also extended his thanks to the RAN for its continuous support of the PN’s endeavors.

The talks also served as a platform to review activities from the previous year, outline future collaborative efforts, and align perspectives on regional and global security objectives.

Negranza said the 8th PN-RAN NTNT reinforced both countries’ commitment to regional security, interoperability, and the continuous enhancement of maritime capabilities.