MANILA, Philippines: On Wednesday, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. embarked on a “guest of government” visit to Australia, graciously invited by Canberra Governor General David Hurley. The President’s plane took off from Villamor Airbase in Pasay City at 8 a.m., marking the beginning of an important diplomatic journey.
One of the highlights of this visit is President Marcos’ address to the Australian Parliament on Thursday, February 29. This speech will serve as a platform to discuss the vision for the Philippines and Australia’s strategic partnership. It is a significant occasion that underscores the deepening ties between the two nations.
Prior to his departure, Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Teresita Daza highlighted the purpose of this visit, stating that it aims to “further cement the strategic partnership that reaffirmed the two countries’ shared interest in regional prosperity and peace.” The President’s activities in Canberra will not only strengthen existing bonds of cooperation but also pave the way for discussions on new avenues of collaboration. This visit holds even greater significance as both the Philippines and Australia look forward to celebrating the 78th anniversary of their diplomatic relations later this year.
President Marcos will return to the Philippines after his visit to Canberra but will soon fly back to Australia for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations-Australia Special Summit from March 4 to 6. This summit will bring together leaders from various countries to discuss regional issues and explore opportunities for cooperation.
What makes President Marcos’ visit particularly noteworthy is that he will be the first Philippine President to address the Australian Parliament. Joining the ranks of world leaders such as United States President George W. Bush, President Barack Obama, Hu Jintao of the People’s Republic of China, UK Prime Minister Tony Blair, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Indonesian President Joko Widodo, and Chinese President Xi Jinping, President Marcos’ presence will undoubtedly deepen the historical ties between the Philippines and Australia.
During his visit, President Marcos will engage in formal exchanges of views and insights with Australian senior officials, including Governor General Hurley, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, and other Australian Parliamentary leaders. These discussions will cover various areas of cooperation and regional issues, providing an opportunity to strengthen bilateral relations and explore new avenues for collaboration.
Secretary Daza emphasized the significance of this visit, stating, “It will be very significant, an opportunity for both the President to discuss the close and enduring relations between the two countries but at the same time see how we can actually explore areas to further deepen the relations.”
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s visit to Australia marks a pivotal moment in the diplomatic history of both nations. It signifies the commitment to strengthen ties, foster cooperation, and explore new opportunities for collaboration. The President’s address to the Australian Parliament and his engagements with senior officials will undoubtedly deepen the friendship between the Philippines and Australia, paving the way for a brighter future of mutual prosperity and peace.
Source: The Manila Times
