Manila, Feb. 5 -- The Philippines is hoping to conclude talks on a visiting forces deal with New Zealand by the end of 2025, said Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. Tuesday night.

In a chance interview at the Waitangi Day Reception in Makati City, the official said the government is focusing its attention on the negotiation after successfully ratifying a similar deal with Japan.

The most optimistic timeline for the capping of talks, he said, is "within the first semester of the year".

The first round of negotiations for a Status of Visiting Forces Agreement (SOVFA) between the two states commenced last month.

"We are now on a phase of alliance-building, strengthening alliance. So, the SOVFA is an important part of both countries a...