Photo credit: PCO

In a bid to enhance the diplomatic relations and foster increased cooperation between the Philippines and France, a delegation of French ministers is scheduled to visit the Southeast Asian nation before the year's end.

During a recent telephone conversation, French President Emmanuel Macron informed President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. about the forthcoming visit of the French ministers to Manila.

President Marcos welcomed this initiative and suggested that they utilize the visit to build upon the discussions held during the 10th Philippine-France Joint Economic Meeting, which took place last June.

President Marcos also extended an invitation to President Macron to visit the Philippines during any of his future state visits to Asia. He emphasized the importance of building upon the progress made during the Joint Economic Committee Meeting and facilitating further interactions between French and Filipino businessmen.

The two leaders also addressed security concerns in the West Philippine Sea. President Marcos expressed the Philippine government's dedication to maintaining peace, stability, and open shipping lanes in the region.

He expressed gratitude to France for its support, including adherence to international law, notably the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), and the dispatch of French vessels to assist with patrols.