Marcos, Albanese forge ‘strategic partnership’
Albanese said his country has been working closely with the Philippine government in reintegrating former combatants in Mindanao into mainstream society.
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Daily TribuneAlbanese said his country has been working closely with the Philippine government in reintegrating former combatants in Mindanao into mainstream society.
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Comprehensive to strategic An ‘elevation of relations,’ as President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr. said, was formalized together with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese as they signed the Joint Declaration on Strategic Partnership between Philippines and Australia at Malacañang Palace on Friday, 8 September. | PHOTOGRAPH BY YUMMIE DINGDING/PPA POOL FOR THE DAILY TRIBUNE @tribunephl_yumi
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese forged a strategic partnership on Friday to deepen cooperation in defense and security, trade and the economy, and maritime affairs.
The two leaders signed a Joint Declaration on Strategic Partnership in a ceremony at Malacañang Palace in Manila.
"The agreements signed and witnessed today symbolize our joint determination to enhance our cooperation across various domains from development to cultural exchanges," President Marcos said.
"These agreements represent a tangible commitment to work together for the betterment of our two nations," he added.
Albanese said his country has been working closely with the Philippine government in conflict-afflicted Mindanao as he announced a new five-year program to reintegrate former combatants into mainstream society.
The Australian leader pushed for community development and livelihood generation, particularly for women and those in vulnerable situations. He said Australia will introduce new visa rules and more scholarships for Filipinos.
A memorandum of understanding was also signed by the two countries, giving the Philippines A$4.4 million for joint research projects on soil enrichment.
"We're also supporting the re-establishment of the Philippines Institute at the Australian National University, which will boost partnerships between Australian and Filipino academic institutions," Albanese said.
