Canada and the Philippines, both vocal critics of China’s increasingly aggressive actions in the South China Sea, have concluded negotiations for a key defense pact that will allow their forces to hold large combat exercises and intensify defense cooperation.

The Philippines and Canada are set to sign a Status of Visiting Forces Agreement to enhance defence cooperation. This agreement, aimed at improving military interoperability, is seen as a milestone in bilateral relations.

The Philippines and Canada have negotiated a deal for the deployment of troops, Manila said Friday, it what will be once signed the latest security pact in the face of