‘2022 crucial for PH, French economies’
F RENCH Ambassador to the Philippines Michele Boccoz said this year will be crucial for both the Philippines and France in terms of economic progress.
“[The year] 2022 is significant for both France and the Philippines. Both countries have elected new government leaders this year. We therefore need to stay aware of the new economic priorities set by both French and Filipino governments,” she said during CCI France Philippines 2022 Annual General Meeting on Friday.
In the Philippines, the results of the May 9 elections revealed that Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. had been elected president. Meanwhile, President Emmanuel Macron of France was reelected in April, and Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne was nominated to lead the French government.
Thus, Boccoz advised CCI France Philippines members to “stay aware of the new economic priorities set by both French and Filipino governments as new opportunities may arise.”
For instance, the French ambassador said both Philippine and French ministers of trade will gather in November in Paris for the Joint Economic Committee, which she described as a high-level summit and an important opportunity to strengthen economic cooperation between the two countries.
At the same time, Boccoz announced that the Indo-Pacific Forum will be hosted in Paris, bringing together French companies eager to develop and invest in the region, as well as local businesses and stakeholders.
“This I feel will be an excellent opportunity for the Philippines to acquire new investors and highlight its strength as an investment destination,” she added.
Boccoz also said the Philippines has one of the most dynamic economies in the Asia-Pacific region. France has identified sectoral priorities in the industries of aviation, building and constructions, infrastructure, maritime health, wine and spirits, biotech and agriculture technology as investment prospects in the archipelago.
“I’m aware that today’s business environment is more fiercely competitive than ever, but then again, competition can be very beneficial. In my view, every member of the chamber can play a key role in the Philippines and across this part of the world to advance economic reform and promote prosperity,” she concluded.