Prague: Czech President to Strengthen Cooperation with the Philippines
In a significant move to support the food security initiatives of the Philippines, Czech President Petr Pavel announced that he would be sending a business delegation to Manila next week. Led by Czech Agriculture Minister Marek Výborný, this delegation aims to establish cooperation and explore investment opportunities in agriculture and other key sectors.
During a joint press conference held after a bilateral meeting with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., President Pavel expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming visit. He emphasized the delegation’s specific plans and the numerous Czech businessmen who are interested in investing in the Philippines.
“We have a diverse range of companies involved in defense industry, manufacturing, farming and agriculture, science, technology, and the energy and power sectors. Many of these businesses have particular plans for future cooperation with the Philippines,” President Pavel stated.
The Czech Republic and the Philippines celebrated their 50 years of diplomatic relations last year, and President Pavel extended an invitation to President Marcos for a three-day state visit to the Czech Republic.
Exploring Agricultural Opportunities
Minister Výborný will meet with Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel and lead a business forum in Makati City on March 21. The forum aims to foster dialogue and collaboration between Czech and Filipino businesses interested in the agricultural sector.
Additionally, the Czech delegation will visit the Davao region for a business forum and will have the opportunity to explore agricultural ventures. One of the places they will visit is the Tagum Agricultural Development Company, Inc. in Panabo City, Davao del Norte.
Past Collaborations in the Dairy Industry
The Czech Republic has been a valuable partner for the Philippines, particularly in the dairy industry. The Czech aid-for-trade program has provided assistance in analyzing and improving value chains in the Philippine dairy industry.
In 2018, the Czech Republic granted the National Dairy Authority’s (NDA) proposal to fund the technical exchange of experts. This initiative aligned with the NDA’s five-year program to increase milk production in the country from one to ten percent.
Under the cooperation between the Czech Republic and the Philippines, two projects were successfully completed. The first project involved expert assistance in conducting an in-depth analysis of the supply chain of the Philippine dairy industry in 2018. The second project, undertaken in 2019, focused on strengthening the capacities of dairy farmers and extension workers.
Looking Ahead
The upcoming visit of the Czech business delegation, led by Agriculture Minister Marek Výborný, signifies the commitment of both countries to strengthen cooperation and explore investment opportunities. The visit not only highlights the potential for collaboration in the agricultural sector but also showcases the diverse range of industries in which Czech businesses are interested.
This visit holds promise for the future, as it paves the way for increased trade and economic ties between the Czech Republic and the Philippines. It is an opportunity for both countries to learn from each other’s experiences and expertise, fostering mutual growth and development.
As the delegation arrives in Manila next week, the stage is set for fruitful discussions, partnerships, and the establishment of long-lasting cooperation that will contribute to the food security initiatives of the Philippines and further strengthen the bilateral relations between the two nations.
Source: The Manila Times
