Abu Dhabi: The United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the Republic of the Philippines have issued a joint statement following the working visit of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to the UAE. This visit marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries. During the visit, President Marcos met with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to discuss the positive status and trajectory of their bilateral relations, which are based on shared interests and mutual cooperation.
According to Emirates News Agency, the leaders noted the expansion of relations into new areas of cooperation beyond the traditional sectors. This includes the signing of key agreements in various fields such as culture, energy transition, legal cooperation, artificial intelligence, digital economy, and investment. Notably, a visa waiver for diplomatic, special, and official passport holders was also announced, as well as investment cooperation between the Ministry of Investment of the UAE and the Maharlika Investm
ent Fund of the Philippines.
The joint statement further emphasized opportunities for additional cooperation in security, counterterrorism, science and technology, and environmental efforts, including reducing plastic waste in the Philippines. The Philippines expressed interest in joining the Group of Friends for Culture-Based Climate Action, launched by the UAE and Brazil. Both nations acknowledged significant achievements in existing agreements and committed to boosting cooperation in areas such as human trafficking, sports, consular services, space science, climate action, and digital infrastructure.
The leaders also highlighted progress in negotiations for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), recognizing its potential economic benefits. President Marcos expressed gratitude for the UAE’s humanitarian assistance during natural disasters and the COVID-19 pandemic, and for the hospitality extended to the Filipino community in the UAE. Additionally, both leaders acknowledged the contributio
ns of the Filipino community to the UAE’s economic development and prosperity, underscoring the significance of peaceful coexistence and tolerance in the UAE’s social fabric.