Islamabad (GNP): Ambassador of the Philippines to Pakistan, Dr. Emmanuel R. Fernandez, has reaffirmed his country’s commitment to further strengthening bilateral relations with Pakistan, particularly in the fields of trade, economic cooperation, diplomacy, and people-to-people exchanges.
He expressed these views while addressing a reception held to commemorate the “128th Independence Anniversary of the Republic of the Philippines.”
The event was attended by diplomats, government officials, business leaders, members of the Filipino community, and distinguished guests.
Speaking on the occasion, Ambassador Fernandez thanked the guests for joining the celebrations and reflected on the significance of independence, resilience, and national unity.
The envoy also recalled the devastating earthquake that recently affected parts of the Philippines, paying tribute to those impacted by the tragedy and highlighting the enduring strength of the Filipino people.
The ambassador emphasized that no nation can prosper in isolation and stressed the importance of cooperation among friendly countries to achieve peace, stability, and sustainable development.
Highlighting the growing partnership between Pakistan and the Philippines, Ambassador Fernandez said economic diplomacy remains a key pillar of bilateral relations.
He noted that the two countries recently held the “Second Joint Economic Commission” on Trade and Economic Cooperation, aimed at expanding commercial engagement and investment opportunities.
He said the Philippines offers Pakistan an important gateway to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) a regional bloc with a combined GDP of approximately $4 trillion, presenting vast opportunities for trade and economic collaboration.
The envoy also underscored the importance of political diplomacy, mutual respect, harmony, and shared values in strengthening relations between the two nations.
He praised Pakistan and the Philippines as like-minded countries working together to promote peace, dignity, resilience, and capacity building.
“Pakistan and the Philippines enjoy a strong friendship, and we look forward to further deepening our cooperation in the years ahead,” Ambassador Fernandez said.
The ceremony featured cultural presentations and provided an opportunity for guests to celebrate the longstanding friendship between the two countries.
President Asif Ali Zardari has extended his heartfelt felicitations to the Government and the people of the Philippines on the occasion of the 128th Independence Day of the Philippines.
Pakistan expresses its deep admiration for the resilience and courage that have come to define the people of the Philippines over the course of their remarkable national journey, the president said in his message.
As both nations prepare to mark 77 years of formal diplomatic relations later this year, our relationship remains rooted in mutual respect, goodwill and a genuine desire to work together for the betterment of both countries.
President Asif Ali Zardari said Pakistan reiterates its shared commitment to multilateral cooperation in vital global forums, including the United Nations and ASEAN, emphasising our determination to carry this relationship forward with renewed energy and purpose.
The bilateral partnership holds considerable promise and both nations are actively exploring avenues for further expansion, he said adding that Pakistani textiles, pharmaceuticals, food products and manufactured goods effectively complement the established strengths of the Philippines in electronics, agricultural produce and coconut-based industries.
The enormous untapped potential in agriculture, food security, healthcare, defence cooperation, education, information technology and renewable energy must be harnessed through greater business-to-business engagement, joint ventures and policy cooperation.
Rana Tanveer Hussain, Federal Minister For National Food Security & Research address the ceremony, Pakistan attaches great importance to its relations with the Philippines and remains committed to further strengthening and diversifying bilateral cooperation. Both countries share a strong commitment to multilateralism, regional cooperation, and international peace.
Since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1949, Pakistan and the Philippines have built a multidimensional partnership covering political, economic, commercial, defense, educational, cultural, and social sectors. Several agreements and mechanisms provide a strong framework for continued collaboration.
He said bilateral trade has witnessed notable growth in recent years, driven largely by Pakistan’s rice exports to the Philippines. Economic engagement continues to expand, creating new opportunities for mutually beneficial cooperation.
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Pakistan appreciates the Philippines’ successful chairmanship of the 48th ASEAN Summit and related meetings. As an ASEAN Sectoral Dialogue Partner, Pakistan looks forward to enhancing its engagement with the regional organization.
I also extend heartfelt condolences on the loss of lives and damage caused by the recent earthquake. Our thoughts and prayers are with the affected families, and we wish a swift recovery to those injured.
In conclusion, I once again convey my best wishes to the Government and people of the Philippines for continued peace, progress, and prosperity. I am confident that the friendship and cooperation between our two countries will continue to grow in the years ahead.
