MANILA - The Philippines is looking to forge reciprocal troops access agreements with Canada, France, New Zealand, and other countries, the defense minister said on Monday.

Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro told ANC news channel he hoped the agreements could be signed next year.

The agreements would allow greater interoperability, as armed forces of these countries can operate within the Philippine territory and vice-versa, Teodoro said.

"It is close to the apex of a defensive alliance," he said.

ALSO READ: Japan-Philippines military ties raise tensions

The Philippines and Japan signed a military pact earlier this month that allows the deployment of forces on each other's soil.