President Marcos is confident that Indonesian President Joko Widodo's successor will maintain good relations between the Philippines and Indonesia as the latter is set to leave his office in October this year.
"As you conclude your term as president of the Republic of Indonesia in these coming months, I am optimistic that your successor will keep the momentum of positive trajectory in both our bilateral and regional partnership," Marcos told Widodo during a banquet in Malacañang on Wednesday, Jan. 10.
The President is counting on Widodo's successor to continue the two countries' ties as he said the Philippines and Indonesia already have "fostered a true relationship" that is built on "seven and a half decades of trust, mutual understanding, and extensive engagement throughout the years."
He also said the Philippines and Indonesia are not only neighbors, but also sisters and brothers in sharing a longstanding history, culture and common aspirations of peace and prosperity for the people and the future.
Celebrating the 75th year of diplomatic relations between the two archipelagic nations, Marcos said he was also pleased with the "outstanding and cordial discussion" he had with Widodo on Wednesday morning ollowing his arrival on Tuesday for a visit.
"These are reflective of our successes we have achieved in the past," Marcos said.
"I assure you sir, that the Philippines will remain committed to working closely and actively with Indonesia as we nurture our bonds and kinships," he added.
Widodo, who has been the Indonesian leader since 2014, will vacate his post in October as Indonesian elections will be held in February.