Venues for greater bilateral defense and security between the Philippines and Finland were discussed following the meeting between Armed Forces of the Philippines chief Gen. Antonio Nafarrete and Finnish Ambassador to the Philippines, Saija Nurminen on Wednesday.

The AFP, in news release Thursday, said the meeting at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City “provided an opportunity for the AFP and Finland to explore avenues for strengthening bilateral defense and security cooperation.”

During the meeting, Nafarrete underscored AFP’s commitment to fostering constructive defense partnerships and expanding cooperation with international partners in areas of mutual interest.

“The courtesy visit also reflects the AFP’s continuing efforts to strengthen defense relations with partner countries and identify opportunities for meaningful cooperation in support of national defense and security objectives,” the news release said.

Air defense

Meanwhile, Nafarrete joined the Philippine Air Force (PAF), through the Air Defense Command, in the conduct of the Air Planning Exercise and Training Flight at Basa Air Base in Floridablanca, Pampanga on Wednesday.

“Gen. Nafarrete also participated in the training sortie, which included a maritime domain awareness mission and showcased offensive counter-air capabilities. His firsthand participation provided direct appreciation of the planning, coordination, and execution involved in air operations, as well as the PAF’s contribution to the broader defense mission of the AFP,” the military said.

The activity underscored the PAF’s continuing commitment to strengthening operational readiness and maintaining a credible, agile, and responsive air force capable of adapting to the evolving character of warfare and addressing national and regional security requirements, it added. (PNA)