Germany offers aid in maritime, aviation, rail development
GERMANY has expressed interest in helping develop the Philippines’ maritime, rail and aviation sectors, yesterday kicking off by signing of a letter of intent to cooperate in the maritime industry to facilitate improved connectivity between the two countries.
The letter of intent — signed on Tuesday by Transportation Secretary Arthur P. Tugade and German Federal Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure State Secretary Michael Odenwald — outlined increased ties between the Philippines and Germany in the field of maritime transport, through conduct of regular talks; development and implementation of maritime projects; training courses; exchange of information on marine accidents; cooperation in marine pollution prevention; and cooperation in the field of ports and maritime equipment, research and training.
“[ This letter of intent] will firm up the maritime relationship between the Germany and the Philippines. This document has been pending for a number of years,” Transportation Secretary Arthur P. Tugade said in his speech before the German delegation during the signing ceremony on Tuesday in Manila.
“This is one golden opportunity where we shook hands and agreed to work together to enhance the maritime capability from sailing to training to research. We exchanged resources, and it is, on our mind a good start for a bolstered relationship with the Germany and the Republic of the Philippines,” he added.
Earlier this year, the two officials met in Germany where they had initial discussions on prospects and possibilities “to develop and implement projects of mutual interest, specifically in the fields of maritime, aviation, road transport, among others.”
In his speech during the signing ceremony, Mr. Odenwald — who described the first discussions as a “meeting directly based on sympathy” — said they tackled projects aimed at fostering productive relations between the two nations.
“I am convinced that we can now have a new start. That we can build on a very solid and good foundation. And you can see by the size of the delegation that I have brought with me that we are very willing to promote economic ties with the Philippines,” Mr. Odenwald said.
Mr. Odenwald and his delegation — which consisted of businessmen and experts in the aviation and rail sectors — are currently in Manila following Mr. Tugade’s invitation.
Mr. Odenwald said the German side is willing to share expertise.
“We are more than willing to share our knowledge and expertise in the railway sector. And I think that we should also continue this cooperation. In my delegation, we also have representatives that have a lot of expertise in the field of railway construction,” he said.
“We are very willing to continue ties in terms of aviation with your country,” he added, noting how both countries should work to further promote bilateral trade.