Metro Manila, Philippines – The Philippines and Australia are strengthening cooperation as like-minded partners committed to a rules-based international order, while expanding economic and education ties, an Australian minister said during a visit to Manila.
Speaking at a press briefing, Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade Matt Thistlethwaite underscored shared interests between the two countries in maintaining regional stability and growing economic opportunities.
“We want to see the upholding of the rules-based order in our region,” he said. “We all live and work in the Asia-Pacific. It’s important for the livelihoods of citizens.”
He added that Australia is working with partners in the region to ensure stability, particularly in the maritime domain.
“Australia will always work to uphold the international rules-based order and to see those rules enforced,” he said.
The visit highlighted deepening ties, which have seen steady growth in trade and investment.
“Our two-way trade relationship is approaching $12 billion in value, with opportunities for growth in the future,” Thistlethwaite said.
He said around 250 Australian businesses are operating in the Philippines, employing around 44,000 workers, and reflecting expanding commercial engagement.
The minister also pointed to shared economic priorities, including renewable energy, the digital economy and artificial intelligence, as areas for future collaboration.
“We discussed our commonalities and our common interests around economic development, stability and security within our region,” he said.
The trip was part of an Australian-led business and education mission aimed at strengthening partnerships with Philippine institutions and industries.
“I’m here leading a trade delegation … to collaborate … around transnational education to grow those opportunities that exist between our two great nations,” he said.
He said the delegation is working to expand access to Australian qualifications through partnerships with local institutions, as part of broader efforts to upskill the workforce and support long-term economic growth.
“Our government is deeply committed to our bilateral relationship and our broader relationship with ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) into the future,” he said. The Philippines is the current ASEAN chairman.
