MANILA, Philippines – Croatia expressed its support as the Philippines bid for a non-permanent seat at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), as well as strengthening possible cooperation in trade and defense.
The commitment was made by Croatian Foreign Minister Grlic Radman on Monday, during a bilateral meeting with his Philippine counterpart, Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro in Pasay City.
“Foreign Minister Radman has also again assured us of Croatia’s support for the Philippines’ candidature to the United Nations Security Council for the term 2027-2028. Our sincerest thanks,” Lazaro said in a joint press conference.
According to Lazaro, both countries have always been strong partners in pursuing maritime security; and the welfare and safety of all seafarers.
The Philippines is one of the largest sources of manpower providing seamen for oil tankers, passenger vessels, cruise ships and cargo ships.
“In many ways, in many aspects we have been collaborating and we have a growing Filipino community in Croatia. The candidature is something they have thought well on how best we can serve in the security council,” Lazaro said.
The Philippines last held one of the elected seats in the UNSC in 2004.
Both officials also discussed collaboration in maritime affairs and defense.
“Defense cooperation is also an important aspect of our relations, where we discussed how both the Philippines and Croatia are working towards defense modernization, and how we can learn from each other’s experiences,” Lazaro said in her remarks.
Meanwhile, Radman noted the “huge opportunity” for defense cooperation with Croatia’s globally recognized defense industrial companies.
According to him, Croatia has also faced territorial disputes and challenges, but remains committed to upholding the rule of law as a responsible member of the UN.
“Maritime territorial disputes are never easy,” Radman said, citing the “complex situation” in the South China Sea, where several countries, including the Philippines and China have overlapping claims.
On the economic front, both sides are eyeing cooperation in labor, science and technology, tourism and education.
“We noted that there is much room for growth, but that this situation presents plenty of promise, with the Philippines offering opportunities for investments in the manufacturing, IT-BPO, food and beverage, and creative industries sectors,” Lazaro said.
