By Prince Golez
In an effort to improve Manila and Tokyo’s cooperation in a wide range of areas, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. left for Japan on Wednesday noon.
In his departure speech, Marcos Jr. said that he would foster collaboration in areas “where future synergies and complementary interests converge with those of Japan.”
“My bilateral visit to Japan is essential and is part of a larger foreign policy agenda to forge closer political ties, stronger defense, and security cooperation, as well as lasting economic partnerships with major countries in the region amid a challenging global environment,” the President said.
His official visit, which is scheduled to take place from February 8 to February 12, also includes meetings with Emperor Naruhito and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida.
In Tokyo, Marcos Jr. said his team will continue to fortify “the bonds of friendship with a close neighbor, like-minded and future-oriented like us in many ways, and a most reliable partner in times of both crises and prosperity. ”
He will meet with Prime Minister Kishida to “take stock of our bilateral relations and regional cooperation in a broad range of engagements,” including security and economic relations, as well as Manila and Tokyo’s ongoing commitment to mutual peace and prosperity, according to him.
The two leaders are expected to sign key agreements in the areas of humanitarian aid and disaster relief, infrastructure, agriculture and digital cooperation.
The Chief Executive will also meet with Japanese business leaders in order to promote trade and investment opportunities in the Philippines.
“In these meetings, I will be joined by my economic team and key private sector representatives who have been and will be continuously our partners in growing the Philippine economy,” said Marcos Jr.
Before returning to Manila, the President will meet with members of the Filipino community in Japan.
