CDF, ADML Chris Barrie has returned to Australia from Manila where he met with senior military and political figures.

"The ADF has had a long term commitment to the region, ADML Barrie said.

"We have developed robust bi-lateral relationships with a range of countries within the region.

"These relationships have stood the test of time.

"The cornerstone of these have been our relations with countries such as Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore, Indonesia, Brunei and of course the Philippines.

"I believe we have a proven track record and over time we have built strong relationships with the military forces in our region based on professional respect, close co-operation and mutual benefit.

"The approach taken by the ADF adds an important dimension and maturity to the Australian Government's extensive and genuine commitment to the region," ADML Barrie said.

During the visit he discussed Australia's continuing deployment to East Timor, the state of the defence relationship, and the forthcoming release of the Australian Defence "White Paper."

"I have recently visited East Timor, "ADML Barrie continued.

"It was gratifying for me to see how much work has been done and how the infrastructure has improved in the year since INTERFET was first deployed.

"For me, the early deployment of a contingent from the armed forces of the Philippines was a particular highlight.

"I was in dili to welcome them ashore when they arrived.
"Life in East Timor is taking on some sort of normalcy again and we are hopeful that those who are currently refugees in West Timor will shortly return to their homes.

"The armed forces of the Philippines (AFP) have played a vital role in the success of both INTERFET and UNTAET.

"The AFP displayed a high level of professionalism, on every occasion I saw them there, and LTGEN De Los Santos, was a very effective commander of UNTAET.

"The defence relationship between Australian and the Philippines is a long standing one.

"We have annual bilateral strategic policy talks and a regular schedule of visits by senior personnel to each other's country.

"Australia also provides a program of training to Philippines personnel through formal education, courses and seminars," he said.

ADML Barrie discussed the ADF "White Paper."

"This will be an ambitious policy statement.

"It will cover our strategic assessment and force structure requirements out to 2020 and will initiate a range of major capability decisions.

"The 'White Paper' is unique in that we conducted an extensive community consultation process with the Australian community to gauge its ideas and perceptions of the ADF."