Netherlands joins Philippines in human trafficking fight

The Netherlands and the Philippines will be working more closely together in the fight against human trafficking, Minister Bert Koenders of Foreign Affairs and his Philippine counterpart Albert del Rosario announced on Monday. "Filipino civilians are regularly lured to richer countries to be exploited there as cheap labor." Koenders said. "Close international cooperation is essential to prevent human trafficking from other parts of the world". The ministers also talked about the risks of climate change and water management. According to the Dutch Foreign Minister, climate change increases the intensity and frequency of natural disasters, including at sea. "The Netherlands, like the Philippines, is surrounded by water. We both have an interest in good protection of our coastlines. Therefore it is logical to pull together with the Philippines in this field." Finally the ministers discussed the maritime cooperation between the two countries. "Many Filipino officers and sailors sail on Dutch ships. This is important for both of us. Dutch navigators are provided with staff and the Filipino seafarers are guaranteed an income." Koenders said. The Netherlands and the Philippines have a good economic relationship. The Netherlands has about 130 countries in the Philippines and is one of the top three investors in the country.