British Ambassador to Manila, Laure Beaufils, has expressed confidence that the year 2024 will be marked by continued growth, milestones, and collaboration between the United Kingdom and the Philippines. In a New Year’s Eve video message shared by the Embassy of the United Kingdom in the Philippines, Beaufils reflected on the significance of 2023 and the progress made in the UK-Philippines relationship, setting a solid foundation for the year ahead.
Beaufils highlighted the successful return of the Great British Festival in March 2023, which showcased the best of British culture, including food, fashion, music, art, and performances. The festival served as a testament to the limitless possibilities when cultures come together. Beaufils expressed gratitude to everyone who participated in the festival, emphasizing the importance of cultural exchange in strengthening bilateral ties.
Another significant event mentioned by Beaufils was the public celebration of the coronation of His Majesty King Charles III at the Quezon City Circle in May. The ambassador expressed her appreciation for the warm reception and affection shown by those who joined in the celebration. This event symbolized the deepening relationship between the UK and the Philippines.
In August 2023, British Foreign Secretary James Cleverly visited Manila, marking a significant milestone in the bilateral relations between the two countries. Cleverly’s visit demonstrated the importance of the UK’s relationship with the Philippines, and it was the first time since 2016 that a British foreign secretary had set foot in Manila. The Department of Foreign Affairs acknowledged the visit as a reaffirmation of the strong ties between the two nations.
Building on the momentum of these events, Beaufils mentioned the first-ever Strategic Dialogue held in London, where both countries assessed the progress made in the past year and outlined their top priorities for the future. The Strategic Dialogue served as a platform to strengthen partnerships across various sectors, including business, trade and investment, climate and environment, science, health, maritime security, and defense.
Beaufils highlighted the visits of Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s Trade Envoy, Minister for Asia Anne-Marie Trevelyan, and Defense Minister Baroness Goldie to the Philippines. These visits furthered the partnerships between the two countries in various areas of mutual interest.
The British Ambassador’s message expressed optimism for the year ahead, emphasizing the shared successes, strengthened partnerships, and even greater achievements that lie ahead for both the Philippines and the United Kingdom. As 2023 came to a close, the Embassy of the United Kingdom in the Philippines extended well wishes to the people of the Philippines and the rest of the world for a joyous New Year.
With Beaufils’ confident projection for 2024, it is evident that the UK-Philippines relationship is poised for continued growth and collaboration. The shared commitment to cultural exchange, strategic dialogue, and bilateral visits demonstrates the importance both countries place on fostering strong ties and achieving mutual goals. As the new year unfolds, it will be exciting to witness the milestones and achievements that will further strengthen the bond between the United Kingdom and the Philippines.
Source: The Manila Times