QUEZON CITY (PIA) — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has been actively engaging with leaders and key partners during the first two days of the 44th and 45th ASEAN Summits and Related Summits in Vientiane, Lao PDR. His participation underscores the Philippines’ commitment to strengthening regional ties and advancing collaborative solutions to pressing issues.
President Marcos, during his departure speech, affirmed his commitment to inclusive, rules-based dispute resolution and emphasized the government’s dedication to ensuring that Philippine engagements with ASEAN and external partners serve national interests and the well-being of the Filipino people.
During the first day of engagements, President Marcos took initiatives to promote the interests of Filipinos and strengthen the ties with ASEAN countries.
At a meeting with the Filipino community, he said that the government is committed to protecting the rights and interests of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) while encouraging them to serve as ambassadors of goodwill to strengthen relations with Lao PDR.
President Marcos also met with Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh to reinforce bilateral ties by enhancing economic cooperation in trade and agriculture.
During discussions on Day 2, President Marcos urged ASEAN member-states to enhance connectivity and resilience by addressing the challenges in the digital economy, food security, tourism, women empowerment and gender equality, climate change, and disaster risk reduction.
He also participated in discussions to enhance cooperation and natural understanding on key regional matters among ASEAN Member Parliaments. He also emphasized the necessity of actively involving the youth in decision-making processes and fostering their development to enable meaningful contributions to society.
During the ASEAN Business and Investment Summit, President Marcos invited investors to explore opportunities in the Philippines, emphasizing its focus on sustainable manufacturing, infrastructure, agriculture, and digital connectivity.
At the business meeting with Shera Public Company Ltd., he discussed the establishment of a manufacturing facility for eco-friendly fiber-cement materials in the Philippines with the goal of reducing import dependence and bolstering the local economy.
President Marcos also participated in discussions to enhance cooperation and mutual understanding on key regional matters among ASEAN Member Parliaments.
Today marks the final day of the president’s four-day participation in the ASEAN Summits. (PIA DMD)
