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French minister visits PH to strengthen economic, transport ties

President Ferdinand R. Marcos receives French Minister on Foreign Trade and International Financings, and French Nationals Abroad, Laurent Saint-Martin, during a courtesy call on April 10, 2025, at the Malacañan Palace. PHOTO BY YUMMIE DINGDING / PPA POOL

Metro Manila, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. welcomed French Minister Delegate for Foreign Trade and French Nationals Abroad Laurent Saint-Martin at Malacañan Palace on Thursday, April 10, as part of the official’s two-day visit to deepen economic and bilateral relations.

Saint-Martin, who also serves under the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, is in the country for high-level meetings on trade, infrastructure, and support for French nationals in the Philippines.

Marcos and Saint-Martin discussed shared priorities in enhancing bilateral ties, particularly in infrastructure and sustainable economic development.

The French official will also meet with key conglomerates, business leaders, and members of the French expatriate community, as well as representatives from French companies operating in the Philippines.

On April 11, Saint-Martin and Trade Secretary Cristina Roque will lead the opening of the France-Philippines Business Forum, an event to foster partnerships between businesses from both sides.

The visit will also see the signing of bilateral agreements with the Department of Transportation, including public-private sector collaborations.