During their meeting, President Marcos Jr. and Prime Minister Luxon discussed various areas of cooperation between their countries. One of the key topics on the agenda was trade and investment. Both leaders expressed their commitment to enhancing bilateral trade and exploring new avenues for investment. They recognized the potential for growth in sectors such as agriculture, renewable energy, and technology.
In addition to trade, the leaders also discussed the importance of people-to-people exchanges and cultural cooperation. They emphasized the need to foster greater understanding and appreciation between the Filipino and New Zealand societies. President Marcos Jr. highlighted the contributions of the Filipino diaspora in New Zealand and expressed his gratitude for the warm reception they have received.
Furthermore, the leaders touched upon regional and global issues of mutual concern. They reaffirmed their commitment to upholding the principles of international law, promoting peace and stability, and addressing common challenges such as climate change and terrorism. Prime Minister Luxon commended the Philippines’ efforts in combating the COVID-19 pandemic and expressed his country’s willingness to collaborate in areas such as vaccine distribution and healthcare capacity-building.
The meeting concluded with the signing of several agreements and memoranda of understanding, symbolizing the deepening of ties between the Philippines and New Zealand. These agreements covered areas such as education and research collaboration, defense cooperation, and tourism promotion. Both leaders expressed their optimism for the future of the bilateral relationship and their commitment to working closely together to achieve shared goals.
As President Marcos Jr. bid farewell to Prime Minister Luxon, he expressed his gratitude for the fruitful discussions and the warm hospitality extended by the New Zealand delegation. He reiterated his invitation for the prime minister to visit the Philippines again in the future, emphasizing the importance of sustained high-level engagement to further strengthen the ties between the two countries.
The visit of Prime Minister Luxon to the Philippines marked a significant milestone in the bilateral relationship between the two nations. It served as a platform for dialogue, cooperation, and mutual understanding, paving the way for a more robust and dynamic partnership in the years to come.
Throughout the decades, the Philippines and New Zealand have worked closely together on various fronts, including trade, education, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges. Economic ties between the two nations have flourished, with bilateral trade reaching new heights year after year. Both countries have recognized the potential for growth and have actively sought to tap into each other’s markets.
Education has also been a key area of cooperation between the Philippines and New Zealand. Many Filipino students have chosen to pursue their higher education in New Zealand, attracted by its world-class institutions and quality education system. Likewise, New Zealand students have been drawn to the Philippines for its diverse culture and affordable education options. This exchange of students has not only strengthened bilateral ties but has also created a deeper understanding and appreciation of each other’s cultures.
Furthermore, the tourism industry has played a significant role in deepening the ties between the two countries. The natural beauty of New Zealand’s landscapes, coupled with the warm hospitality of the Filipino people, has attracted a growing number of tourists from both nations. This has not only contributed to the economic growth of both countries but has also fostered cultural exchange and friendship.
As the Philippines and New Zealand approach the 60th commemoration of their bilateral relations in 2026, Prime Minister Luxon’s visit serves as a reminder of the progress made over the past six decades. It is an opportunity for both countries to reflect on their achievements and recommit to further strengthening their ties. Through continued collaboration and cooperation, the Philippines and New Zealand can build an even stronger partnership that will benefit both nations and contribute to regional stability and prosperity.
Trade and Tourism between the Philippines and New Zealand
Trade between the Philippines and New Zealand has played a significant role in their bilateral relations. In 2022, New Zealand ranked as the Philippines’ 28th trading partner out of 230, with a total trade amounting to $495.37 million. While New Zealand is the country’s 38th export destination, it also serves as the 24th import source.
However, it is important to note that the Philippines currently has a trade deficit of $361.94 million with New Zealand. Both countries continue to explore avenues for balanced and mutually beneficial trade partnerships.
Aside from trade, tourism has also been a key aspect of the Philippines-New Zealand relationship. In 2023, the Philippines recorded a total of 29,272 tourist arrivals from New Zealand, a significant increase from the 17,503 recorded in 2022. This growth solidifies New Zealand’s position as the 22nd source of visitors to the Philippines.
Furthermore, the Filipino community in New Zealand has also experienced substantial growth in recent years. Based on the 2018 New Zealand census, there were 72,612 Filipinos in New Zealand. However, pending the results of the 2023 New Zealand census, which will be released on May 29, 2024, it is estimated that the number of Filipinos in New Zealand has reached approximately 79,998. This increase in the Filipino population demonstrates the strong cultural and people-to-people ties between the two nations.
Prime Minister Luxon’s visit to the Philippines, following his trips to Singapore and Thailand, signifies the importance of fostering closer relations between New Zealand and Southeast Asian countries. Through diplomatic engagements and increased cooperation, both countries can continue to build a mutually beneficial partnership that spans various sectors, including trade, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges.
One area where the Philippines and New Zealand can further enhance their trade relationship is in the agricultural sector. The Philippines is known for its abundant agricultural resources, while New Zealand is renowned for its expertise in agriculture and livestock farming. By sharing knowledge and technology, the two countries can collaborate to improve agricultural practices and increase productivity.
Additionally, there is also potential for collaboration in the renewable energy sector. Both the Philippines and New Zealand have been actively pursuing sustainable energy solutions to reduce their carbon footprint. New Zealand has made significant progress in harnessing renewable energy sources such as geothermal and wind power, while the Philippines has been exploring the development of its own renewable energy infrastructure. By exchanging best practices and investing in joint projects, the two countries can contribute to the global effort to combat climate change.
Furthermore, the tourism industry can be further developed through increased collaboration between the Philippines and New Zealand. Both countries boast unique natural attractions and cultural heritage sites that can attract tourists from around the world. By promoting each other’s destinations and offering joint travel packages, the Philippines and New Zealand can tap into new markets and attract more visitors. This would not only boost tourism revenues but also foster cultural exchange and understanding between the two nations.
In conclusion, the trade and tourism relationship between the Philippines and New Zealand holds great potential for growth and cooperation. By addressing the trade deficit, exploring new sectors for collaboration, and promoting each other’s attractions, the two countries can strengthen their ties and create a more prosperous future for their people.
Source: The Manila Times
