PRESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. emphasized the need for nations to stand united in the face of global challenges, such as climate change and geopolitical tensions.
In his bilateral meeting with His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah of Brunei on Tuesday, Marcos cited the need for the two countries to unite amid the changing regional and global landscape.
“The landscape of our region and of the world is changing in fundamental ways. The challenges brought by climate change, environmental degradation, and geopolitical tensions find it necessary for nation-states to cooperate more closely and more effectively,” Marcos said during the meeting.
“I am therefore honored to discuss the state of our countries’ relations, as well as exchange views on regional and international developments with the world’s longest-reigning current monarch and the longest-serving current head of state,” he added.
The two leaders witnessed the signing of agreements on key areas, such as tourism, agriculture, and maritime cooperation to further strengthen the four-decade-old ties of the two countries.
During his meeting with the Sultan, Marcos acknowledged Brunei’s assistance to the Philippines, especially during the early days of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic when it donated test kits and vaccines to the country, and the help it extended to the victims of Super Typhoon Yolanda and Typhoon Odette.
Sultan Bolkiah, meanwhile, thanked Marcos for accepting his invitation to visit Brunei, noting that the latter’s state visit is customary to both countries in strengthening their friendship and ties.
“I’m looking forward to further enhancing our friendship in areas of future interest, which I believe will greatly benefit our countries and people,” the Sultan said. (PNA)
