Marcos cites need to boost economic cooperation with ‘like-minded’ nations

PRESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. on Monday cited the need to boost economic partnerships with “like-minded” nations or countries respecting international law, in a remark made against the backdrop of heightening tensions in the South China Sea.

Mr. Marcos left the Philippines on Monday for his visit to Germany until March 13, and to the Czech Republic on March 13-15, vowing to “underscore our unwavering commitment to strengthening partnerships with like-minded countries promoting the rulesbased international order.”

In his departure speech, the Philippine leader said he will focus on expanding economic cooperation with the two Central European nations, citing the need for more “mutually beneficial trade and investment opportunities.”

“We wish to tap Germany’s expertise in renewable energy to assist us in our energy transition efforts, as well as on manufacturing, healthcare, agriculture, aerospace, innovation and startups, IT-BPM, minerals processing,” he said.

“In the same vein, we wish to harness the Czech Republic’s expertise on agriculture, manufacturing, especially in the automotive industry, transportation, renewable energy, space, and scientific instruments that they have been leading the world in, in terms of technology,” he added.

While in Germany, Mr. Marcos will witness the signing of a joint declaration of intent to boost cooperation in maritime trade.

The deal, which will be signed by both countries’ transportation agencies, would facilitate the mobility of Philippine- and Germanowned commercial vessels.

A cooperation program between the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority and the German Federal Institute for Vocational Education and Training will also be sealed.

In the Czech Republic, on the other hand, Mr. Marcos will witness the signing of a cooperation deal for the safe and orderly migration of Filipino workers.

Mr. Marcos said his government is eager to invite German and Czech businesses to consider the Philippines as “a production hub for their products.”

His trip to the two European nations followed the visits to Manila of Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala in April last year and German Federal Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock in January.