During the State visit to the Philippines, on Monday after attending the welcoming ceremony at Malacanang Palace in Manila, General Secretary and President To Lam held talks with Philippine President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr.
At the talks, the two leaders shared common views on promoting substantive cooperation in several priority areas, focusing on sustainable agricultural development, regenerative agriculture, connecting hard infrastructure, opening more direct flights, and strengthening cooperation between key port pairs. They also shared experiences on digital transformation, building a digital government, applying artificial intelligence, and developing smart cities.
Speaking at a press conference afterwards, General Secretary and President To Lam announced the results of the talks. “Based on the good friendship and the interests and aspirations of the people of both countries, we agreed to elevate the bilateral relationship between Vietnam and the Philippines to an Enhanced Strategic Partnership. A focus will be placed on promoting cooperation, maintaining high-level contacts, people-to-people exchanges and business connections to maintain consultations on strategic regional and international issues."
"We will increase mutual complementarity in development orientations, maximize bilateral cooperation mechanisms and promote cooperation through dialogue at all levels. Cooperation will be consolidated and expanded in defense and security, as well as cooperation in the sea and oceans,” Mr. Lam said.
The Philippine President said Vietnam is currently the Philippines' 11th largest trading partner. Both sides committed to creating a favorable environment for two-way investment, especially in processing, manufacturing, green technology, and the digital economy.
On this occasion, General Secretary and President Lam and President Marcos Jr. witnessed the signing and exchange of numerous cooperation documents in defense, training, and tourism.
