PHL, EU capital tackle FTA

FOREIGN Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro on Tuesday said the Philippines is in talks with the European Union’s (EU) capital to fast-track the conclusion of a free trade agreement (FTA), identifying new areas of partnerships on trade and maritime cooperation.

At a joint media briefing with Belgium Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot, Ms. Lazaro said that Manila has backed Brussels’ application to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations Treaty of Amity Cooperation (TAC), noting that it is a “crucial step” towards an FTA between the Philippines and the EU.

“This FTA, as has been mentioned, not only will provide market access, but will also provide facilitation of trade from the many rules, rules of origin and all the other aspects. And I think this is what is very important in our situation now,” she said.

Ms. Lazaro added that the conclusion of the FTA was initially expected mid-2026, but had been extended for a few more months, noting difficulties in negotiating such an agreement.

She said that her discussion with Mr. Prévot on June 30 has led to the identification of new points for maritime partnerships focused on education, seafarers’ welfare, and legal cooperation.

Under the trade and investment, Ms. Lazaro said they have also identified semiconductors, renewable energy, creative industries, and academic cooperation.

“We are also witnessing growing interest from Belgian investors in the Philippines,” Mr. Prévot said. “Belgian companies such as Puratos, Deme, Jan De Nul, Odoo, Atomia, Melexis, UCB, Umicore and more and others demonstrate the strong potential for further deepening our economic partnership.”

He also reaffirmed Belgium’s commitment to uphold the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea as the Philippines enters the 10^th year since winning the 2016 arbitration award, adding that Brussels is in the process of ratifying its TAC in Southeast Asia.

“Belgium supports the negotiations towards a free trade agreement between the European Union and the Philippines,” Mr. Prévot said. “We will continue to push in favor of the conclusion of this FTA with your country.” — Kaela Patricia B. Gabriel