UAE, Philippines Presidents discuss strengthening bilateral cooperation

emirates7 - President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan welcomed His Excellency Ferdinand Marcos Jr, President of the Republic of the Philippines, who arrived in the UAE for a working visit.

During their meeting at Qasr Al Shati in Abu Dhabi, His Highness expressed optimism that the visit would mark a significant milestone in strengthening the relationship between the two nations. The leaders discussed ways to enhance cooperation, focusing on economic, trade, investment, and development sectors, as well as other areas of shared priority and mutual interest.

The conversation also covered various topics of mutual concern, with both leaders exchanging perspectives on key issues. His Highness highlighted the enduring and growing ties between the UAE and the Philippines, which have seen significant progress, particularly in developmental initiatives.

He noted that 2024 marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries and reaffirmed the commitment to deepening these ties for the benefit of both nations. His Highness also expressed the UAE's eagerness to continue discussions toward finalizing a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with the Philippines to further enhance trade and investment relations. He emphasized the UAE’s role as a major trading partner of the Philippines in the region and its collaboration through ASEAN, where the UAE has been a Sectoral Dialogue Partner since 2022.

The President of the Philippines, Ferdinand Marcos Jr, expressed his gratitude for the warm reception and commended the UAE for its outstanding humanitarian efforts and dedication to addressing global challenges. He reaffirmed the Philippines' commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation across all levels, building on the solid foundation of their longstanding relationship to advance mutual interests.

As part of the visit, the UAE and the Philippines signed several agreements and memoranda of understanding. These covered various areas, including cultural exchange, energy transition, mutual legal assistance in criminal matters, extradition, transfer of sentenced persons, and cooperation in government modernisation and development.

The meeting was attended by senior UAE officials, including H.H. Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior; H.H. Sheikh Hamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Managing Director of Abu Dhabi Investment Authority; and several other high-ranking officials. Members of the delegation accompanying President Marcos Jr were also present.