This month marks the 48th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the United Arab Emirates and the Republic of the Philippines. ln less than 5 decades, bilateral relations have reached new heights at various levels, as our two countries have strengthened political collaboration, and trade and investment have grown significantly in recent years.
As it has been a year that I have served as UAE Ambassador to the Republic of the Philippines, I would like to express my pride at representing the UAE in the Philippines and my eagerness to strengthen our bilateral ties in all fields to further bolster our friendship.
I would also like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to the leadership of my country for their confidence in me to represent the UAE. I would also like to express my appreciation the leadership and government of Philippines, and our Filipino friends and colleagues for their warm welcome and support in all aspects.
The UAE and the Philippines enjoy close relations that offer significant opportunities in all fields, and we are keen to enhance ties.
Recently, the Governments of the UAE and Philippines signed an investment promotion and protection agreement in a large step towards further consolidating economic relations in the interest of our peoples. Moreover, a Memorandum of Understanding on Agriculture was signed, and on February L1-, our two countries signed a joint statement announcing the commencement of negotiations regarding the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) at Expo 2O2O Dubai. This agreement will help bolster trade and investment, remove barriers to trade, and create more job opportunities in both countries.
Undoubtedly, many more opportunities are yet to come in the near future.
Marking the 48th anniversary of diplomatic relations is especially important in light of the global challenges facing our countries in recent years, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, food insecurity, and inflation, among others. These challenges, however, provide opportunities to deepen our collaboration, as the UAE extended a hand of assistance to countries in need throughout the pandemic.
In another show of international cooperation, the UAE was proud to host a resoundingly successful Expo 2O2O Dubai. As the first world Expo held in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia region, Expo 2O2A Dubai was one of the largest global events with L92 participating countries, including the Philippines, where it promoted tourism, culture, and investment opportunities in the country.
The Philippines Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai attracted over one million visitors during its six-month runtime, wherein the country showcased its cultural sustainability theme.
Relations between our two countries have been considerably strengthened in recent years, particularly through visits by officials of the two countries. Through these visits, numerous agreements have been signed, including one that led to the establishment of the Joint Cooperation Committee.
Both countries are now looking forward to further promoting bilateral trade, which reached USD 806 million in 202L. The future of cooperation between the UAE and the Philippines is promising, with prosperity and opportunity awaiting both sides.
