MANILA, Philippines: President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. returned to the country early Wednesday morning from a two-day state visit that aimed to further strengthen the Philippines’ strategic partnership with Vietnam. The plane carrying Marcos and the entire Philippine delegation landed at 2:47 a.m at the Villamor Airbase in Pasay City.
“I am pleased to inform you and the Filipino people of the outcomes of the state visit to the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. The state visit aims to further strengthen our strategic partnership with Vietnam,” Marcos said in a pre-recorded arrival statement.
During his visit, Marcos had a meeting with Vietnam President Vo Van Thoung, where they affirmed their commitment to strengthen relations and witnessed the exchange of agreements between the two countries. They discussed areas of cooperation, including defense, maritime, trade and investment, economic, education, tourism, and culture. The exchange of several agreements, including on rice, agriculture, culture, and maritime cooperation, demonstrated the commitment of both nations to enhance collaboration in various sectors.
Marcos also had separate meetings with Vietnam Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and National Assembly Chairman Vuong Dinh Hue. These meetings focused on strengthening bilateral relations, people-to-people exchanges, parliamentary cooperation, and other areas of collaboration. The President assured the government successfully safeguarded the interests of Filipino businesses operating in Vietnam, providing them with a platform to voice their experiences, plans, and challenges at the highest level. He emphasized the Philippine government’s readiness to support these businesses in competing in foreign markets.
In addition to government engagements, Marcos engaged with Vietnamese business leaders to explore opportunities for economic growth. The Vietnamese business community expressed interest in expanding their businesses in the Philippines and exploring cooperation with Filipino counterparts in various traditional and non-traditional economic activities. The President’s dialogue with VinGroup Company opened up possibilities for collaboration in fields such as artificial intelligence, medical courses, and granting scholarships for Filipino students. They also discussed active participation in the electric vehicle and battery supply chains, highlighting the potential for mutually beneficial partnerships.
During his visit, Marcos also took the opportunity to meet with the Filipino community in Vietnam, expressing his appreciation for their work and contributions. He acknowledged the sacrifices they have made for their families and praised them for their efforts in the socio-economic development of both the Philippines and Vietnam. Marcos promised that his administration will continue to strive for the betterment of Filipinos, both at home and abroad.
The state visit of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to Vietnam was a significant step in strengthening the strategic partnership between the Philippines and Vietnam. The discussions and agreements reached during the visit pave the way for increased cooperation in various sectors, including defense, trade, investment, education, and culture. The commitment of both nations to support businesses and foster people-to-people exchanges further solidifies the bilateral relationship. As President Marcos Jr. returns to the Philippines, the government remains dedicated to promoting the welfare and interests of Filipinos, both domestically and internationally.
Source: The Manila Times
