Manalo concludes Canadian working visit; promotes broader bilateral relations
Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Secretary Enrique Manalo has concluded his working tri-city visit to Canada, where he proposed ways for broadening bilateral relations.
“There is a need to explore untapped economic opportunities in each other’s markets,” Manalo said when he met with Canadian Trade Minister Mary Ng.
Manalo conferred with Ng and other ministers when he made a visit to the Canadian cities of Vancouver, Ottawa and Toronto from May 6 to 10.
It was the first visit to Canada for a Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary since 2012.
He also met with were Immigration Minister Marc Miller, International Development Minister Ahmed Hussen and Foreign Affairs Minister Melanie Joly.
DFA said Monday, May 13, that Manalo reaffirmed the Philippines' ties with Canada as both countries marked the 75th year of their diplomatic relations.
"As people-to-people exchanges is one of the central themes underpinning our relations, SFA Manalo also met with Immigration Minister Marc Miller," DFA said.
Manalo called for stronger protection of temporary foreign workers and international students in Canada as he conveyed with Miller the Philippine government's hope for Filipino professionals to be able to practice their professions in Canada there.
"Recognizing education as an engine of growth and the impact of climate change as an impediment, the Secretary met with Minister of International Development Ahmed Hussen to include these matters at the center of development planning and discussions," DFA said.
"The Secretary also recognized Canada’s technological advances and high-level of production in the field of agriculture, and conveyed that the Philippines looks forward to working with Canada on food security and in ensuring adequate nutrition for all," it added.
Manalo also delivered a policy address on the Indo-Pacific Region at an event organized by the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada.He also met with the members of the Canada-Philippines Inter-Parliamentary Friendship Group at a reception hosted by Philippine Ambassador to Canada Maria Andrelita Austria.
In Toronto, Manalo met with Ontario Premier Doug Ford to discuss ways to promote the welfare and interests of the Filipino Diaspora.
He also visited Little Manila with Minister for Small Business Rechie Valdez and Member of Parliament for Eglinton-Lawrence Marco Mendicino, and held discussions with York University officials to further strengthen Academic Linkages between York University and the Philippines.