MANILA, Philippines: President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. embarked on a journey to Japan on Friday to participate in the 50th anniversary of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)-Japan Relations. This event serves as an excellent opportunity for the President to reaffirm the Philippines’ position on current international issues and advance Philippine interests.
The President, accompanied by First Lady Marie Louise “Liza” Araneta-Marcos and several Cabinet members, will be in Tokyo from December 15 to 18. In his pre-departure statement, Marcos expressed his enthusiasm for welcoming the conferment of Comprehensive Partner Status to Japan, which has been ASEAN’s trusted and reliable partner in peace, economic development, and community-building for the past 50 years.
The Commemorative Summit will consist of three sessions, each focusing on different aspects within the ASEAN-Japan framework. Marcos highlighted the objectives of each session in his statement.
During the first session, the Summit will assess Japan’s contribution to ASEAN’s community-building efforts and its consistent support for ASEAN Centrality and the rules-based international order. This evaluation will shed light on the significant role Japan has played in promoting regional cooperation and stability.
The second session, titled “Heart to Heart” Partnership across Generations, will recognize Japan’s commitment and initiatives in fostering friendship and camaraderie between the peoples of ASEAN and Japan. The Japan-East Asia Network of Exchange for Students and Youths (JENESYS) Program will be acknowledged as a prime example of this effort. Marcos will emphasize that the Philippines has a long history of cultural exchange through the JENESYS Program and has been one of its largest beneficiaries since 2007, welcoming Japanese young people while also sending our own.
The final program of the summit will focus on the Co-Creation of Economy and Society of the Future. Marcos plans to bring the Philippine economic team, led by Secretary Fred Pascual, to participate in these discussions. This session will provide an opportunity for both ASEAN and Japan to explore avenues for collaboration and innovation in shaping a prosperous and sustainable future.
The President’s participation in the ASEAN-Japan Commemorative Summit underscores the importance of strong bilateral relations between the Philippines and Japan. It highlights the mutual commitment to regional stability, economic development, and cultural exchange. By actively engaging in these discussions, President Marcos Jr. aims to strengthen ties and foster a deeper understanding between the two nations.
This summit marks a significant milestone in the ASEAN-Japan partnership, celebrating five decades of collaboration and progress. As President Marcos Jr. represents the Philippines at this historic event, he carries the aspirations and interests of the Filipino people, working towards a brighter future for both the Philippines and ASEAN as a whole.
Source: The Manila Times
