PH, UAE mark 51 years of ties, highlight deeper economic cooperation

Metro Manila, Philippines – The Philippines and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) marked the 51st anniversary of their diplomatic relations by reaffirming commitments to strengthen economic cooperation, with both sides pushing forward major trade and investment initiatives, including the anticipated signing of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).

In a statement, Ambassador of the UAE to the Philippines Mohamed Alqataam Alzaabi and the Embassy highlighted how bilateral ties have expanded across trade, development, culture, and people-to-people exchanges.

“The United Arab Emirates and the Republic of the Philippines proudly mark the 51st anniversary of diplomatic relations, celebrating over five decades of friendship, cooperation, and shared progress,” the statement read.

Relations reached a milestone in November 2024 with the visit of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to Abu Dhabi, where he met with UAE President H.H. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai.Over the past three years, both nations have signed about 22 agreements covering culture, energy transition, legal cooperation, government modernization, and security. The expected CEPA signing in the coming weeks is seen as a key step in boosting trade and investment flows between the two countries.Recent joint initiatives also include the UAE’s USD 20 million commitment to rehabilitate the Pasig River and a USD 15 billion agreement between Abu Dhabi-based Masdar and the Philippines to develop renewable energy projects capable of delivering up to 10 gigawatts of clean power by 2030.The UAE remains home to more than one million Filipinos, whose contributions span across every sector of society. The UAE Embassy reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding their welfare while deepening bilateral cooperation.“As the UAE and the Philippines celebrate 51 years of enduring friendship, both countries reaffirm their commitment to advancing cooperation, fostering innovation, and promoting shared prosperity for generations to come,” the Ambassador’s statement added.Foreign Affairs Secretary Theresa Lazaro also welcomed Ambassador Alzaabi in Manila for discussions on expanding economic cooperation.