Washington, DC - Friday, March 18, 2016, Assistant Secretary of State Daniel Russel and Assistant Secretary of Defense David Shear will lead the Sixth Annual U.S.-Philippines Bilateral Strategic Dialogue (BSD) with the Government of the Philippines, led by Department of Foreign Affairs Undersecretary for Policy Evan Garcia and Department of National Defense Undersecretary for Legal and Strategic Concerns Pio Batino. On the occasion of the BSD, the two sides will reaffirm their commitment to peace, security, and economic prosperity in the Asia Pacific region.

Both countries will announce important progress on the implementation of the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) and how the Agreement will support the United States’ efforts to help modernize the Armed Forces of the Philippines, develop capacity and capability for maritime security and domain awareness, and provide rapid humanitarian assistance and disaster response.