Germany is seeking to formalize a Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) with the Philippines, a move aimed at enabling joint military training and establishing “credible deterrence” against shared regional security threats.
German Ambassador Andreas Michael Pfaffernoschke expressed his aspirations for the defense accord during a security forum on Thursday, citing similar agreements recently pursued by other European nations.
“My dream is that we will soon start to negotiate a full visiting forces agreement, as it has been done with other countries in Europe, like France, recently.”
The proposed pact follows a general defense cooperation agreement signed in 2025, as Manila continues to broaden its network of allies amid rising tensions in the West Philippine Sea.
The Ambassador drew parallels between the security challenges in Asia and Europe, comparing regional assertiveness to Russia’s aggression in Ukraine.
“Germany sees the Philippines as an important strategic partner in Southeast Asia, and we are working with our Philippine partners in various areas to further intensify cooperation between our countries.”
If finalized, Germany would join an expanding list of Philippine defense partners that includes the United States, Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Canada, and France. Negotiations for a similar agreement with the United Kingdom are also currently underway.
According to Pfaffernoschke, the shift toward stronger military ties is a necessary response to the current global climate, emphasizing that collective security is the most effective path forward.
“Building deterrence, credible deterrence, is back on the international agenda and it’s back in Germany as well as in the Philippines. Cooperation with like-minded countries will serve as a catalyst and bring us all closer together.”