September 14, 2023 (Quezon City) – During her introductory call on Secretary of National Defense (SND) Gilberto C. Teodoro Jr., Her Excellency Marie Fontanel-Lassalle, Ambassador-designate of France to the Philippines, said she looks forward to the continued improvement of the two countries’ relations, as the French Embassy in Manila has recently opened its Defense Mission. Welcoming the shared commitment of the Philippines and France to the rules-based international order and adherence to the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), Secretary Teodoro underscored the importance of enhancing defense ties with other countries around the globe and how it strengthens complementary relationships such as on trade, investment, and commerce. He further suggested that France converge with other like-minded states in upholding freedom of navigation and addressing maritime challenges. Emphasizing France’s role as a partner in the Indo-Pacific region, Ambassador-designate Fontanel reiterated France’s offer to support the AFP Modernization Program (AFPMP), including the Naval Group’s readiness to assist in building a Philippine submarine force. Other matters raised during the call were the Philippines’ recent joint sails with the United States, and the possible reciprocal visits between the defense ministers of the Philippines and France.