Philippines, New Zealand start negotiations on Status of Visiting Forces Agreement

The Status of Visiting Forces Agreement will enable the armed forces of the Philippines and New Zealand to elevate their cooperation activities and conduct exercises in each other’s territories.

The Philippines and New Zealand have officially started negotiations for the Status of Visiting Forces Agreement (SOVFA), the Southeast Asian country’s Department of National Defence (DND) announced on January 29.

In a statement, the department said the first round of talks took place in Manila on January 23, with the presence of New Zealand Ambassador to the Philippines Catherine McIntosh, and Philippine defence, diplomatic and justice officials.

img-3843.jpg

The first round of negotiations marked an important step in strengthening bilateral defence ties.

The Status of Visiting Forces Agreement will enable both countries’ armed forces to elevate their cooperation activities and conduct exercises in each other’s territories, deepening overall defence and military cooperation.

The DND said the successful conclusion of this agreement will be a significant milestone for the overall bilateral relationship, which will mark 60 years of diplomatic ties in 2026./.

World

Myanmar cracks down on online scam centres
World

Myanmar cracks down on online scam centres

An estimated 220,000 people were estimated to have been tricked into working for romance-investment schemes, crypto fraud, money laundering and illegal gambling in Myanmar and Cambodia in 2023.

Singapore makes efforts to upgrade social housing
World

Singapore makes efforts to upgrade social housing

Singaporean Minister of National Development Desmond Lee said on February 17 that 29,000 flats built in 1997 or earlier have been chosen for the Housing Board’s Home Improvement Programme (HIP) and will get structural improvements and upgrades to bathrooms and entrances, among other things.

Indonesia raises volcano alert to highest level
World

Indonesia raises volcano alert to highest level

Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki, which stands 1,703 meters tall, has erupted multiple times in recent months. In November, a series of eruptions killed nine people, forced thousands to flee, and disrupted international flights to Bali.

Indonesia boosts culinary tourism
World

Indonesia boosts culinary tourism

To promote Indonesian culinary tourism, the Indonesian Ministry of Tourism is currently focusing on culinary products to ensure that tourism products can move up a class. It is also paying attention to wellness tourism, gastronomy, marine, and fashion.