Islamabad, Pakistan – His Excellency President Asif Ali Zardari held a meeting this evening at Aiwan-e-Sadr with the Honorable Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, former President and current Member of the House of Representatives of the Republic of the Philippines.
The meeting served to reinforce the long-standing diplomatic relationship between the two nations, with discussions focusing on enhancing cooperation in defence, trade, and regional affairs.
Strengthening Strategic and Economic Partnerships
In his remarks, President Zardari highlighted the over seven-decade-long friendship between Pakistan and the Philippines, noting productive collaboration across political, economic, and defence spheres. He specifically pointed to the 2022 Memorandum of Understanding on Bilateral Defence Cooperation as a significant milestone in the strategic partnership.
The President congratulated the Philippines on its upcoming assumption of the ASEAN Chairship in 2026 and reaffirmed Pakistan’s appreciation for Manila’s steadfast support for Pakistan’s engagement with the regional bloc.
On economic ties, President Zardari called for a more robust partnership, emphasizing the potential for increased trade in food and pharmaceutical products and greater collaboration between the private sectors of both countries.
Solidarity and People-to-People Ties
President Zardari expressed profound solidarity with the people and government of the Philippines following the recent natural disasters, including an earthquake in Cebu and Typhoons Kalmaegi and Fung-wong. He commended the Philippine government’s leadership in advancing regional climate resilience, particularly through its role in establishing the Loss and Damage Fund, which will be headquartered in Manila.
Acknowledging a key step in facilitating people-to-people connections, the President appreciated the Philippines’ decision to grant long-term residence permits to Pakistani citizens married to Filipino nationals. He also expressed hope for reciprocal facilitation for Pakistani visitors to the Philippines.
A Legacy of Mutual Respect and Friendship
In response, former President Macapagal thanked President Zardari for the warm reception and reaffirmed her country’s commitment to deepening cooperation with Pakistan. She extended her sympathies for the lives lost in recent terrorist attacks in Pakistan.
Reflecting on the historical bonds between the two nations, Ms. Macapagal recalled the official visit of her father, President Diosdado Macapagal, to Pakistan in 1959. She noted that the relationship has been built on a foundation of mutual respect and friendship.
She further emphasized Pakistan’s significant role on the global stage, stating that as a vibrant member of the Global South and the world’s fifth most populous nation, Pakistan is positioned to assume a leadership role for other countries to follow.
Distinguished Attendees
The meeting was also attended by H.E. Mr. Emmanuel R. Fernandez, Ambassador of the Philippines to Pakistan. Chairman Senate Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani, Senator Sherry Rehman, and Senator Saleem Mandviwala were also present from the Pakistani side.
BY: The Times Union
