The Philippines and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have renewed their commitment to further strengthen the bilateral relations between the countries, Malacañang said.
President Rodrigo Duterte and United Arab Emirates (UAE) Crown Prince Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan engage in a discussion as they renew their commitment to further strengthen and deepen the Philippines-UAE bilateral relations during a phone conversation at the Malacañang Palace on February 8, 2022. KARL ALONZO/ PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO
The Palace issued the statement following the phone call between President Duterte and UAE Crown Prince Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan of the United Arab Emirates Tuesday evening, February 8.
According to Malacañang, President Duterte congratulated the UAE on its 50th Founding Anniversary. He likewise expressed appreciation for the care and concern and for hosting almost 600,000 residing in the middle eastern nation.
He likewise congratulated the Crown Prince for his country’s ongoing successful hosting of the World Expo 2020 Dubai. Duterte said that the event, where the Philippines is an active participant, is proof that COVID-19 can be overcome.
“The UAE is showing the world how it should be done,” he said.
The President also conveyed his regards to His Highness Khalifa bin Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Abu Dhabi.
Meanwhile, the President conveyed sincere regrets for being unable to proceed with the planned visit to the UAE. He said this is because he had to personally ensure that domestic measures to address COVID-19 remain robust in the face of emerging variants.
The President, however, reiterated his wish to undertake the visit to “a great country under a ruler known for his equanimity” when circumstances allow. The Crown Prince, in response, said he is looking forward to a visit by Duterte at the most opportune time even in his personal capacity.
For his part, Crown Prince Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan said he is honored to speak with the President and happy to note the growth of the UAE-Philippines “bilateral relations to a level both sides can be proud of.”
His Majesty likewise assured President Duterte that the UAE government will continue to take care of Filipino nationals residing in the country in the best way it can.
The UAE benefits from the skills of Filipino workers and is happy to have them, the Crown Prince added.
According to Malacañang, both the President and the Crown Prince expressed solidarity in the face of continuing threats posed by terrorism and violent extremism.
President Duterte underscored the Philippines’ commitment to “international cooperation in combatting terrorism by all means in accordance with international law.”