President Marcos, UAE leader vow to boost economic ties

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have committed to strengthen cooperation in key areas as President Marcos concluded his visit to the Middle Eastern country, an occasion that coincided with the golden anniversary of the two countries’ diplomatic ties.

Marcos and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan talked about deepening cooperation in the economy, trade, sustainability and other fields during their meeting in Abu Dhabi yesterday, the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) said.

“The two leaders emphasized their dedication to strengthening bilateral ties and delivering lasting benefits to their peoples, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of friendship and collaboration between their nations,” the PCO said in a statement.

Marcos thanked Al Nahyan for UAE’s assistance in various areas, including the arrest and turnover of a sex trafficker to Philippine authorities, training and support for the Philippine National Police and the pardon given to 143 Filipinos during this year’s Eid al-Adha.

The President also expressed gratitude to UAE for its humanitarian aid to communities devastated by recent cyclones.

The Philippines and the UAE forged diplomatic ties on Aug. 19, 1974. Almost 700,000 Filipinos are working or staying in UAE.

Marcos’ day-long visit to UAE was his 31st foreign trip since becoming president in 2022.