Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. has expressed the military’s gratitude to Australia for its efforts in promoting regional peace and stability, as well as for strengthening defense cooperation with the country.

Brawner made the remark following his meeting with Australian Ambassador to the Philippines, Marc Innes-Brown, who paid him a courtesy call on Tuesday in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City, according to AFP in a statement.

“(Brawner) expressed his appreciation for Australia’s steadfast support and enduring defense cooperation with the Philippines,” the AFP said.

“He acknowledged Australia’s significant contributions to advancing regional peace and stability, and reaffirmed the AFP’s commitment to further strengthening bilateral military engagements.”

The military said Innes-Brown’s courtesy call highlighted the diplomatic engagement and continued strengthening of the strategic defense partnership between the Philippines and Australia.

“The meeting concluded with both sides reaffirming their shared commitment to promoting peace, security, and prosperity in the region through sustained military and diplomatic cooperation,” the AFP said. (PNA)