CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City— The Chief of Staff, AFP (CSAFP) General Andres C Centino PA hailed the stronger defense diplomacy relations between the Philippines and India as he addressed the delegates of the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) Day 2023 Reception on March 22 in Taguig City.
ITEC is India's international capacity-building platform that offers training for civilian and military officials from over 160 countries. Administered by India's Ministry of External Affairs, it has so far catered to 200,000 officials in the areas of defense, artificial intelligence, cyber technologies, engineering and technology, agriculture, health, and governance.
In his keynote speech, the Chief of Staff extended the AFP's profound thanks to the Ambassador of India H.E. Shambhu S Kumaran, for this latest opportunity to further boost the alliance between the Republic of India and the Republic of the Philippines, especially for both armed forces.
"Over the years, ITEC has provided unique opportunities for the professional advancement of our military personnel, especially those who have been part of ITEC's long-standing efforts. In addition, ITEC has been a source of training and capacity programs for its partner countries. We are fortunate to be one of the continuing participants, particularly in defense courses," the CSAFP said.
ITEC Day reception highlighted the achievements of its alumni and featured keynote addresses from the CSAFP, Professional Regulation Commission Chairperson Charito Zamora, and TESDA Director General Danilo Cruz.
"Experience has shown that mutual training and capacity-building cooperation among allies are vital in ensuring that both our defense forces are capable of responding to any security threat and other exigencies under all circumstances," the CSAFP concluded./// (Photos by TSg Obinque PAF/PAO, AFP)
