THE Italian Navy's 4,880-ton displacement warship Francesco Morosini has arrived in Manila, signaling the start of improved military cooperation between Italy and the Philippines. reported the Manila Times.

Italian Ambassador to the Philippines Marco Clemente said the vessel is embarking on a five-month naval campaign in the Indo-Pacific to send a clear signal that Italy wants to play a role in the region.

"Italy is very much interested in the stability of the region," he said at a press conference aboard the 4,880-displacement ton Morosini.

"The Indo-Pacific region is crucial not only for the obvious strategic reason that this area is where the main trade goes through. Stability in the region also means free trade and stability of the economic situation," he said.

Mr Clemente said the 144-metre patrol vessel would participate in a joint exercise with the Philippine military during its five-day port call in Manila.

"The exercise in the port of Manila will open a lot of opportunities. This presence of the ship Morosini can make a difference for the future of our bilateral relations," Mr Clemente said.

"We are working hard to finalise a memorandum that, when agreed upon after receiving political authorisation, will make so much easier our industrial relationships," he said.