President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Tuesday expressed optimism for enhanced regional collaboration and the continued strengthening of diplomatic ties in the Indo-Pacific to promote peace, prosperity, and long-term stability in the region.

“I look forward to the future of our mutually-beneficial cooperation, full of hope and confidence that our two peoples will continue to benefit from our diplomacy, and that we realize our aspirations for regional peace, prosperity, and stability as we stand together as strategic partners,” President Marcos said.

In his toast remarks welcoming Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru, his wife Yoshiko, and the Japanese delegation at Malacañang Palace, President Marcos emphasized that their visit holds “great significance for both the present and future of our nations.”

The Japanese Prime Minister is on an official visit to the Philippines for the first time.

President Marcos said strong bilateral partnerships are critical in advancing the shared goals for peace, prosperity, and long-term stability in the region.

President Marcos recalled his initial meeting with Prime Minister Ishiba on the sidelines of the ASEAN-related summit in Laos in October 2024, noting it as a meaningful start to their continued dialogue and cooperation.

During their meeting in Laos, President Marcos said they reaffirmed their commitment to a “future-oriented Strengthened Strategic Partnership.”

The President extended heartfelt thanks to Japan for its steadfast support of Philippine development efforts, including cooperation in the areas of infrastructure, defense, health, digitalization, and peace-building, particularly in Mindanao.

President Marcos said he hopes for diplomacy that benefits the two countries and contributes meaningfully to a stable, secure, and prosperous Indo-Pacific. | PND