DND chief, Canadian trade minister discuss defense cooperation, $105M chopper deal

Visiting Canadian Trade Minister Edward Fast met with Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin this week to discuss increased defense cooperation between the two countries.

Fast said that Canada had "continuing interest" in helping the Philippines advance its "defense and security agenda," according to a news release from the Canadian government.

He also highlighted Canadian capabilities in the defense and security sector, according to Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada.

Both officials also highlighted the recent signing of a $105-million contract in which Bell Helicopter Textron Canada Ltd. will supply the Philippines eight specialized helicopters.

"This contract is an outcome of the Memorandum of Understanding between the Canadian Commercial Corporation and the (DND) of the Philippines," Canada said.

Fast led a trade mission to the Philippines on July 21 and 22, focusing on opportunities in the agriculture, defense, information and communications technologies and sustainable technologies sectors.

The mission also sought to "promote greater trade, job creation and prosperity both at home and abroad." — Joel Locsin/DVM, GMA News