Marcos recognizes Australia as 'indisputable' regional stabilizer
By Raymund Antonio and Raymund Antonio
President Marcos on Thursday, Feb. 29, hailed Australia’s role as an “indisputable” regional stabilizer and expressed the Philippines’ commitment to a rules-based order based on international laws to promote peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
(From left) Prime Minister Anthony Albanese of Australia and President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. (Photo from the Presidential Communications Office)
The Chief Executive delivered his statement at the Prime Minister’s Office in Canberra, Australia during his two-day state visit to the country.
“The Philippines recognizes Australia’s indisputable role as a regional stabilizer. As a flourishing democracy and a staunch advocate of the rules-based order and rule of law, Australia responsibly discharges its economic and strategic capacity, thereby sustaining the regional framework that has allowed us to experience unprecedented growth and peace,” he said in his remarks during a joint press conference with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
“The Philippines fully adheres to the same set of values, making our two countries natural partners in the region,” the President added.
Stressing that “stability in the Indo-Pacific region is a utmost priority for both our countries,” he assured Australia that the Philippines will continue to be a partner in promoting “predictability of actions in the international arena.
Marcos also recognized the two countries’ position “in such a dynamic regional security environment.”
“The Philippines is fully ready to continue upholding its commitments as your Strategic Partner and as one of your oldest friends in the region,” the President stressed.
Marcos, who is set to return to the Philippines on Thursday, also earlier addressed Australian Parliament, which he said was an “honor” that befits the partnership between the two countries.
He also shared that he and Prime Minister Albanese had a “very engaging discussion” about the opportunities and issues of the countries’ Strategic Partnership.
“The Prime Minister and I both agreed to continue to look for ways to explore every option possible, to bring our countries closer than ever and collectively, with optimism and hopeful outlook, to be a force of good, unity, stability, and prosperity in our region,” he said.
Next week, the Chief Executive will once more travel to Australia to attend the Special Summit to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)-Australia Dialogue Relations.