France is reaffirming its commitment to reinforcing its role as a “like-minded” partner in the Indo-Pacific by expressing its readiness to hold joint maritime patrols in the West Philippine Sea, according to the French Ambassador to the Philippines, Marie Fontanel. This statement comes in response to the recent announcement by the Armed Forces of the Philippines that more states are seeking to conduct air and sea patrols with the Philippines.
Fontanel clarified that France is prepared to engage in joint maritime patrols, stating, “So far, under my comprehension, we were ready to [do so]. So, it might not really be us that would need the framework.” She also acknowledged the importance of the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) between France and the Philippines, which provides a legal framework for the presence of one country’s forces in the other.
The negotiation of a VFA between President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and French President Emmanuel Macron is currently pending approval. Once the VFA is established, the possibility of joint patrols can be further explored. Fontanel emphasized that the discussion on the VFA is a prerequisite before organizing joint patrols.
It is crucial to understand that France’s push to increase its presence in the region aligns with its Indo-Pacific Strategy. This strategy aims to promote a rules-based order in the region, emphasizing respect for international law and the peaceful resolution of disputes. Fontanel reiterated that France is genuinely concerned about the developments in the West Philippine Sea.
“It’s no doubt that for France and also for Europe to have an eye on what’s going on here is a given. For many reasons, but, of course, because of what’s going on in the region, and particularly the West Philippine Sea, we are concerned,” she stated.
France’s interest in the West Philippine Sea is not only driven by geopolitical considerations but also by its commitment to upholding international norms and ensuring stability in the region. By actively engaging in joint maritime patrols, France aims to contribute to the maintenance of peace and security in the Indo-Pacific.
It is worth noting that joint patrols can provide several benefits, including enhanced maritime domain awareness, increased deterrence against illegal activities, and strengthened cooperation between nations. By collaborating with the Philippines and other like-minded partners, France can contribute to the preservation of freedom of navigation and the protection of maritime resources in the West Philippine Sea.
Furthermore, France’s willingness to conduct joint patrols demonstrates its commitment to multilateralism and its recognition of the importance of collective security in addressing regional challenges. By working together with regional partners, France seeks to foster a cooperative approach that ensures the stability and prosperity of the Indo-Pacific region.
In conclusion, France’s readiness to hold joint maritime patrols in the West Philippine Sea reaffirms its dedication to being a “like-minded” partner in the Indo-Pacific. Through its Indo-Pacific Strategy, France aims to promote a rules-based order and address the concerns surrounding the developments in the region. By actively engaging in joint patrols, France can contribute to the maintenance of peace, stability, and the protection of maritime resources in the West Philippine Sea.
Source: The Manila Times
