By Diplomacy Journal Lee Kap-soo

Prime Minister Han Duck-soo met with Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo on Aug. 7, asking him to play an active role in helping the international community send a firm and united message to North Korea's provocations.

Han received Manalo, who is on an official visit to South Korea, at the Government Complex in Seoul later in the day and exchanged views on bilateral relations, cooperation in various fields and the regional situation, the prime minister's office said in a press release.

"It is important for the international community to send a firm and united message to North Korea to prevent it from embarking on further bold provocations," Han said, adding that he asked the Philippines to play an active role in sending a clear and unified message to North Korea at the ASEAN summit in October.

Han also noted that the Philippines was the first "blood brother" in Asia to send troops during the Korean War and said, "Our people will never forget the sacrifices and dedication of Filipino soldiers." 

Manalo said in response, adding, "We look forward to further developing our bilateral relationship.

The two sides also shared the importance of maintaining peace, stability, security, and a rules-based maritime order in the South China Sea.

Han and Manalo also agreed to expand cooperation in areas such as supply chain, defense, and energy, and exchanged views on ways to do so.

In particular, Prime Minister Han appreciated the bilateral cooperation in the labor sector, including the entry of Filipino helpers into South Korea, and asked for the Philippine government's interest and support in developing cooperation in other areas in addition to the labor sector. 

In response, Manalo expressed his appreciation for the contributions of Korean companies to infrastructure expansion in the Philippines and said he would keep an eye on issues of interest to Korea.