By Ma. Teresa Montemayor
MANILA – Defense cooperation between Sweden and the Philippines has taken a significant step forward with the recent appointment of new defense attachés by both countries, reflecting growing bilateral engagement amid shifting security dynamics in the Indo-Pacific region.
In a news release on Friday, Sweden said it has named Lt. Col. Anders Nikanorsson as its new non-resident defense attaché to the Philippines. Based in Bangkok, Nikanorsson will serve as a strategic liaison to help strengthen Sweden’s defense diplomacy in the region.
“I am deeply honored and genuinely excited to take on this assignment,” he said.
“The Philippines holds a pivotal position in the Indo-Pacific, both geographically and strategically. As a maritime nation committed to international law and regional stability, it is a natural partner for Sweden in promoting a rules-based global order and enhancing security cooperation.”
Earlier, the Philippines assigned a non-resident defense attaché to Stockholm, signaling mutual commitment to expanding defense dialogue and cooperation.
Ambassador of Sweden to the Philippines Anna Ferry said Nikanorsson’s extensive experience as a senior defense officer significantly strengthens Sweden’s capacity to engage on critical security and defense issues.
“His presence ensures a direct and informed dialogue with our counterparts in the Philippines –an important and valued partner,” she added.
Sweden is intensifying its strategic presence in the Indo-Pacific, in line with its broader defense posture outlined in the Defense Resolution 2025–2030.
At the 2025 International Institute for Strategic Studies Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore on May 31, Swedish Defense Minister Pål Jonson met bilaterally with Philippine Secretary of National Defense Gilberto Teodoro Jr. to reaffirm mutual commitments to international law and regional security.
Jonson also held discussions with multiple regional counterparts, reiterating Sweden’s commitment to collaborative defense dialogue.
With growing defense interoperability and diplomatic engagement, Sweden and the Philippines are poised to become strategic partners in advancing a shared vision for peace, security, and a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific. (PNA)
