KUALA LUMPUR, May 27 — The Philippines is strengthening regional ties with Vietnam and Laos, as President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. held separate bilateral meetings with their leaders on the sidelines of the 46th Asean Summit in Malaysia yesterday.
The Philippines News Agency (PNA) reported that in his meeting with Vietnamese Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính, Marcos said the two countries are discussing the possibility of elevating their strategic partnership to a comprehensive strategic partnership.
“Our ministers are in discussion on the possibility of elevating the strategic partnership to a comprehensive strategic partnership. I believe there are already productive conversations between our two countries,” he said, as quoted in a Malacañang Palace press release.
Phạm acknowledged the progress in bilateral relations since Marcos’ state visit to Vietnam in January last year, and expressed hope that the partnership can be further elevated.
Both leaders also discussed enhanced cooperation in trade, agriculture, food security, tourism, education, and cultural exchanges.
Marcos extended his condolences over the recent passing of former Vietnamese president Trần Đức Lương.
In a separate bilateral meeting, Marcos and Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone reaffirmed their commitment to strengthen cooperation as the Philippines and Laos mark 70 years of diplomatic relations.
The two leaders identified key sectors for deeper collaboration: trade, education, defence, digital innovation, agriculture, skills development, and tourism.
He also underscored the potential of expanding trade ties, noting Laos’ rapid economic growth. Trade between the two countries has nearly doubled, from US$7 million (RM29.43 million) in 2019 to approximately US$13.72 million (RM57.69 million) in 2024.
Marcos proposed establishing direct flights between Manila and Vientiane to boost tourism and connectivity further.
Siphandone commended the Filipino community in Laos, over 2,000 strong, for their contributions in education, research, and architecture.
He also thanked the Philippine government for supporting Lao's ministries through scholarships and language training.
Siphandone welcomed increased Filipino investments in Laos’ priority sectors, including clean energy, advanced technology, health services, and infrastructure.
He formally invited Marcos to undertake a state visit to Laos, signalling a forward-looking agenda for broader cooperation in the years ahead.
— Bernama
