MANILA: Philippines President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has said that he would prioritize critical issues for the Philippines, including food security and energy, at the upcoming Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) summit in Riyadh.
The summit marks the first interaction between ASEAN and GCC, bringing together vibrant economic regions.
During the summit, the Philippines aims to highlight the importance of cooperation in various areas such as energy, food security, logistics, supply chains, digital technologies, and the free flow of goods, people, and services.
Their remittances have played a significant role in contributing to the Philippines’ gross domestic product. President Marcos intends to engage constructively with ASEAN and its partners to further national interests and the well-being of the Filipino people.
During his visit to Riyadh, he plans to meet with the Filipino diaspora in Saudi Arabia to discuss developments in the Philippines and express gratitude for their invaluable contributions. In light of growing tensions in the Middle East and concerns about the Russian invasion of Ukraine, President Marcos pledges to support solutions that ensure stability in both the GCC and ASEAN regions.
He will hold discussions with ASEAN and Gulf Cooperation Council leaders to address the challenges posed by major geopolitical developments and work toward enhancing security, economic progress, and socio-cultural collaboration. Emphasizing the need for a rules-based international order, the President seeks to maintain peace, security, and stability in the regions.
