New Zealand Naval Vessel’s Port Call Affirms Security Ties with Philippines

Manila — The docking of HMNZS Aotearoa in Manila represents New Zealand’s pledge to advance a secure and peaceful Indo-Pacific region in cooperation with the Philippines, affirmed New Zealand’s top diplomat in the country.

According to Philippines News Agency, the auxiliary vessel’s goodwill stopover from October 30 to November 1 is part of the New Zealand Defence Force’s (NZDF) extensive naval outreach in the region. New Zealand Ambassador Peter Kell highlighted the significance of the visit, “The HMNZS Aotearoa’s visit to the Philippines underscores New Zealand’s dedication to maritime security, regional stability and fostering diplomatic relations in the Indo-Pacific.” Kell further reinforced the bilateral relations by noting in Filipino, “Ito ay nagsisilbing patunay sa matibay na samahan ng New Zealand at Pilipinas” (It serves as a testament to the strong and enduring partnership between New Zealand and the Philippines).

The timing of the ship’s visit aligned with significant local events, including the Philippines’ 2023 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections, as well as the traditional All Saints’ and All Souls’ Day observances. The embassy outlined that during its stay, the crew of HMNZS Aotearoa participated in a variety of engagements that bolstered cultural connections and maritime collaboration.

This display of naval diplomacy follows on the heels of the 7th Foreign Ministry Consultations between the Philippines and New Zealand on June 23, where the two nations discussed defense, security cooperation, and other regional security issues, with particular focus on the developments in the West Philippine Sea.