President Marcos is pushing for enhanced parliamentary cooperation between the Philippines and Vietnam, stressing that it will promote national security and socioeconomic development for both nations.

(From left) President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. and Chairman of the National Assembly of Vietnam Voung Dinh Hue shake hands during a meeting on Jan. 30, 2024.

Marcos said this during a meeting with Voung Dinh Hue, Chairman of the National Assembly of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, on Tuesday, Jan. 30, a day before flying back to Manila in conclusion of his state visit to Vietnam.

“[W]e have a wide variety of areas of cooperation that  are under our Strategic Partnership, and in strengthening this, we recognize the important role of our parliamentary relations which provides us with a meaningful platform to discuss our policies in pursuit of a peaceful global community,” he added.

Enriching parliamentary cooperation, however, needs to be anchored in the open communication between the two countries, the Chief Executive stressed.

“We certainly  welcome the creation of the Philippines-Viet Nam Friendship Parliamentary Group and recognize its fundamental role in maintaining an open communication where our countries could engage in policy dialogue and exchanges, so as to enrich our parliamentary cooperation,” Marcos said.

“On cooperation between our political parties, I envision that the mandate of our political parties is to promote national security, enhance socio-economic development, and uplift the lives of our peoples.”

The President hoped that there would be more exchange of visits between the lawmakers of the Philippines and Vietnam, which will pave the way for them to “bring legislation and initiatives in line with these goals.”

Meanwhile, he also recalled the Philippines’ hosting of the 31st Asia Pacific Parliamentary Forum (APPF) in November 2023, where he recognized Vietnam’s active participation, adding that the APPF is an affirmation of the trust and cooperation between the two countries.

This trust is based on the respect they have for each other, as well as their adherence to international laws and conventions.

Likewise, he welcomed Vietnam’s interest in the Philippines’ taxation system, universal health care, and the digitalization of the policy process.

“[T]he vibrant discussions with parliamentarians across the region in an open and trusting environment helped achieve our common objective of promoting understanding, collaboration, and commitment to advance peace and development in the region,” Marcos said.