President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. arrived late Monday night in the United Arab Emirates for a one-day working visit at the invitation of UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
Marcos Jr. landed at 11:09 p.m. local time at Al Bateen Airport in Abu Dhabi and was welcomed by UAE Minister of State Saeed Al Hajeri, along with Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro and Philippine Ambassador to the UAE Alfonso Ver.
During the visit, the President will join world leaders at the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, where he is expected to take part in discussions on global issues such as energy, water, food security, finance, and environmental protection.
A key highlight of the trip is the signing of two major agreements—the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement and a defense cooperation memorandum—aimed at boosting trade ties and strengthening collaboration in advanced defense technologies.
Marcos Jr. said the visit and agreements will benefit Filipinos at home and the nearly 900,000 Filipinos living in the UAE. He is also set to hold business meetings and meet with members of the Filipino community.
Officials said the visit underscores deepening Philippines-UAE ties and potential cooperation in climate adaptation, renewable energy, the digital economy, and artificial intelligence.IMT
