Metro Manila, Philippines – Nordic countries composed of Denmark, Finland, Norway, Sweden and Iceland, reaffirmed their support for the rule of law and the Philippine position in the West Philippine Sea, while calling for de-escalation of global conflicts.
Speaking on behalf of Nordic nations, Danish Ambassador Franz-Michael Skjold Mellbin emphasized shared democratic values, including human rights, accountability, and respect for international law.
“Ours is a partnership… bound not by interests only, but also by values,” Mellbin said, underscoring trust and rule of law as the foundation of ties with the Philippines.
The Nordic bloc warned that rising geopolitical tensions threaten global stability, citing both Russia’s war in Ukraine and China’s actions in the West Philippine Sea.
“Be it Russia’s war aggression against Ukraine or China’s actions in the West Philippine Sea, we are reminded that peace is not a gift granted, but a right upheld,” said Finnish Ambassador Saija Nurminen
They also called on all parties to adhere to international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the 2016 Arbitral Award.
“We call on all parties to respect their commitments under UNCLOS and the clear wording of the 2016 Arbitral Award,” they added.
Norwegian Ambassador Christian Halaas Lyster highlighted continued Nordic support for peace and development in the Philippines, including efforts tied to long-standing peace processes.
“We will continue to support the implementation of the peace agreement and a brighter, more secure future for all those affected,” he said.
Swedish Ambassador Anna Ferry, meanwhile, emphasized the importance of people-to-people ties in strengthening long-term relations.
“The strongest bridges between nations are built not of steel, but of people,” she said, citing education, cultural exchange, and professional collaboration as key drivers of cooperation.
At the same time, Nordic officials raised concerns over emerging threats such as cyberattacks, disinformation, and sabotage targeting democratic institutions, including in the Philippines.
Despite these challenges, the ambassadors reiterated their commitment to deepen cooperation with Manila, highlighting growing economic ties, investments, and people-to-people exchanges.
The statement was delivered by ambassadors from Denmark, Finland, Norway, and Sweden, reflecting a unified Nordic stance in supporting a rules-based international order and like-minded partners such as the Philippines.
