“As always, our participation in the ASEAN Summit reaffirms our dedication to deepening regional cooperation and to advancing the well-being of every Filipino, and the entire Southeast Asian community,” President Marcos said in his departure speech at the Villamor Air Base in Pasay City.
“I will continue to champion our advocacies in promoting an open, inclusive, and rules-based international order, and for the peaceful resolution of disputes in accordance with international law,” the President added.
President Marcos said he will highlight the country’s commitment to a rules-based multilateral trading system which is a vital compass in navigating today’s complex geoeconomic challenges.
“At this Summit, I will join fellow ASEAN Leaders in reaffirming our commitment to ASEAN Centrality as we navigate pressing regional and global challenges, including developments in the South China Sea, the situation in Myanmar, threats to regional peace and maritime security, as well as the far-reaching impacts of climate change, economic volatility, and transnational crime,” economic volatility, and transnational crime,” the President said.
According to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), the President is expected to attend 14 leaders’ level meetings and three signing ceremonies.
President Marcos is also expected to hold bilateral meetings with fellow leaders to strengthen ties and identify new opportunities for cooperation.
During the Summit, the President along with other leaders of ASEAN member-states will welcome Timor-Leste as the newest member of the regional bloc.
Malaysia will turn over the ASEAN Chairship to the Philippines, which will host the ASEAN Summit next year. | PND
