Manila, June 2 -- The Philippines and the European Union are committed to advancing talks on a free trade agreement (FTA), Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo said Monday.

In a joint press conference with visiting EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas in Makati City, Manalo said both the Philippines and EU are eager to deepen economic ties and utilize the future FTA to further boost trade and investment.

"Noting the firm commitment of both sides in advancing negotiations, I expressed the Philippines' hope for the continued support of the EU and its Member States toward the early conclusion of negotiations of a comprehensive, balanced, and modern FTA," he said.

The two sides finished two rounds ...