Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, February 8)— President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. arrived in Japan on Wednesday in a trip that aims to bolster defense, security, and economic ties between the two Asian nations.
In his departure speech, Marcos underscored the importance of his five-day visit to Tokyo amid what he called a “challenging global environment.”
“It is part of a larger foreign policy agenda to forge closer political ties, stronger defense and security cooperation, as well as lasting economic partnerships with major countries in the region,” he said.
The chief executive also said he will be pushing for collaboration in other pivotal areas like agriculture, renewable energy, digital transformation, and infrastructure.
The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) earlier said the two countries are expected to ink seven bilateral deals on top of other business agreements.
“I look forward to bringing home more of these agreements that will be of benefit to the transformation of our economy and to be able to mitigate some of the challenges that we are facing in the new global economy,” the president stressed.
More projects, investments, and meetings
READ MORE: What to expect in Marcos’ Japan visit
Aside from signing new deals, Marcos said the government also aims to finalize some projects previously postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“So that’s why kung titignan niyo ‘yung schedule very specific, may purpose ang bawat meeting,” Marcos noted.
[Translation: So that’s why when you look at the schedule, it’s very specific, there’s a purpose for every meeting.]
He also expressed hope that his visit would pave the way for the entry of the Philippines’ agricultural products in the Japanese market.
During his Japan trip – slated until Feb. 12 – Marcos confirmed that he will meet with key Japanese figures such as Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako.
He will also hold discussions with Tokyo’s business leaders and visit the Filipino community in the area.
The president’s contingent for the trip includes First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri, House Speaker Martin Romualdez, members of his economic team, and private sector representatives.
