President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. held separate bilateral meetings with leaders from the European Union (EU) and Japan on Sunday, Oct. 26, during the 47th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur, reaffirming the Philippines’ commitment to deepen regional partnerships.
In his meeting with European Council President António Costa, Marcos Jr. received the EU’s support for the Philippines’ 2026 ASEAN Chairship. Both leaders agreed to boost trade cooperation and uphold the international rules-based order.
The President also met Japan’s new Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae, congratulating her on her election.
The two looked forward to marking 70 years of diplomatic relations in 2026 and discussed stronger defense and security cooperation under the recently implemented Reciprocal Access Agreement.
They also reaffirmed the importance of the Philippines–U.S.–Japan trilateral partnership in promoting regional peace and stability.IMT
