Manila, June 6 -- Defense cooperation between Sweden and the Philippines has taken a significant step forward with the recent appointment of new defense attaches 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 attache 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 ...