The Philippines and Argentina are looking into possible areas for cooperation, including nuclear and renewable energy, space, forensic science and pathology, and rice importation.

Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo visited capital Buenos Aires for bilateral talks with counterpart Santiago Andres Cafiero, upon the invitation of the latter for the commemoration of the two nations’ 75th year of diplomatic ties.

In a statement Thursday, the DFA said the Philippines and Argentina are “united in their unwavering support” for multilateralism to address challenges.

Manalo and Cafiero also discussed recent developments in the South China Sea, especially infringements on Philippine sovereignty, sovereign rights, and jurisdiction, noting that disputes over sovereignty and territory must be resolved by peaceful means in accordance with the principles of international law.

“The Secretary underscored that the Philippines will continue to uphold and protect its entitlements under the UNCLOS (United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea) and the 2016 Arbitral Award,” the DFA said.

The two also discussed issues and developments in their respective regions, as well as global issues and developments affecting both countries.

They also followed up on issues discussed during the 5th Bilateral Consultation Meeting in Manila and the first Ministerial-level Scientific and Technical Mission from the Philippines to Argentina that took place earlier this year.

“The ministers recognized positive developments in the bilateral trade and investment relations and the vast potential for increased trade and affirmed the importance of regional integration in ensuring peace, prosperity, and stability,” the DFA said. (PNA)